CaliToday (07/10/2025): The deputy director of the Hanoi Lung Hospital has been formally charged in a criminal investigation, accused of using their position to help a convicted individual illegally delay the start of their prison sentence. The move marks a significant development in a case that touches on medical ethics and the abuse of authority within a major public healthcare institution.
 |
| Police and the People's Procuracy execute the prosecution decision against Mr. Hoang Van Huan (third from right) and other defendants. Photo: Linh Dan |
The investigating agency of Hanoi's police department announced on Tuesday that it had initiated legal proceedings against the high-ranking hospital official. The charges stem from allegations that the deputy director provided assistance, likely through the issuance of medical documentation, which enabled a person already sentenced by a court to postpone their required incarceration.
Under Vietnamese law, the act of "khởi tố bị can," or initiating prosecution against an accused person, is a formal step that designates them as a suspect in a criminal case. It allows authorities to proceed with a more in-depth investigation, which could lead to a formal indictment and trial.
While specific details about the convicted person and the nature of their original crime have not been fully disclosed, the core of the accusation against the deputy director is the deliberate obstruction of the legal process. Helping a person evade or delay a legally mandated sentence is considered a serious offense that undermines the authority of the judiciary.
This case has drawn significant attention from the public and the media, highlighting concerns about the potential for corruption and the exploitation of official positions within the healthcare system. It is seen as part of a broader anti-corruption campaign in Vietnam, which has increasingly targeted abuses of power across various sectors, including public administration and healthcare.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities will continue to gather evidence to build their case. If found guilty, the deputy director could face severe penalties, including imprisonment and dismissal from their post, further emphasizing the government's commitment to upholding the rule of law.