Teens Arrested for Theft During Hungry Ghost Festival in HCMC

Photo courtesy of VN Express

Four teenagers have been detained in Ho Chi Minh City after allegedly stealing offerings intended for the Hungry Ghost Festival. The individuals, including Mai Anh Kiet, 18, his accomplices Nguyen Tuan Hung and Ha Kim Bao, both 17, and a 15-year-old, were apprehended for “robbery.” The theft occurred on September 6th when the youths took items from a table prepared for the festival outside a PNJ jewelry store.

The incident unfolded as a store employee was setting up offerings such as fruits and cakes, which are typical for the festival. As they lit incense, the group arrived on motorcycles, grabbed the table, discarded the offerings, and quickly fled. Security cameras captured their escape, leading authorities to track down the suspects.

The teenagers admitted to having stolen offerings on multiple occasions, inspired by others who partook in similar activities for monetary gain. Following the robbery at the PNJ store, they reportedly continued their spree the next day, targeting another venue. The Hungry Ghost Festival, celebrated on the 15th day of the seventh lunar month, involves offerings to wandering spirits from the underworld according to tradition.

A playful yet controversial custom has developed in Vietnam where participants snatch offerings. While some view it as a humorous tradition or a means to symbolically protect offerings from spirits, others deem the practice unacceptable. The seizure of entire tables, however, has not been condoned by the community.

Looking ahead, police are continuing their investigation to verify the extent of the teenagers' actions and determine potential further charges. The event highlights ongoing debates about cultural traditions and mischief during such festivals. Authorities aim to curb these misdemeanors while respecting cultural nuances.

Key Takeaways

• Four teenagers arrested for stealing offerings in Ho Chi Minh City.
• Theft linked to tradition during the Hungry Ghost Festival.
• Authorities continue investigations into the youth practices.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now from VN Express 2025-09-16