On June 23, Ho Chi Minh City Police announced criminal charges against Nguyen Quynh Khoi, born in 2000 and residing in Dong Thap Province, on allegations of destroying property.
According to investigators, at around 1 am on May 30, Khoi carried spray paint cans to the city centre with the intention of painting graffiti on structures, walls and other vacant surfaces.
When he reached an area opposite 8-15 Ton Duc Thang Street in Sai Gon Ward, he allegedly used spray paint to mark advertising panels attached to the protective fencing surrounding a pedestrian bridge project under construction.
After carrying out the act, Khoi left the scene.
Following a complaint from the project's management unit, Sai Gon Ward Police launched an investigation and determined that the graffiti had damaged two advertising canvas panels installed on the construction site's protective barrier.
Authorities estimated the damage at more than VND 30 million (approximately USD 1,150).
Police said construction projects and public infrastructure developments in the city centre serve the wider community and should be protected and preserved.
According to investigators, Khoi's actions constituted damage to the property of organisations and individuals, causing not only financial losses but also negatively affecting the city's urban appearance and image.
Ho Chi Minh City Police urged residents to comply with the law and refrain from engaging in or assisting with unauthorised painting, graffiti or acts that damage public or private property.
Authorities said all violations would be investigated and dealt with strictly in accordance with the law.