September 29, 2025Sep 29 Photo courtesy of VN Express Prosecutors in Tay Ninh Province have charged an 18-year-old, Ho Bich Ngan, and six others in connection with forced labor and debt bondage involving underage girls. The group is accused of luring teenagers with fake job offers and subsequently coercing them into work. The immediate impact of the charges highlights a significant case of human trafficking in Vietnam's Tay Ninh Province. The accused, including Ngan who was 17 at the time, allegedly opened a massage parlor in March last year, initially established in what was Long An Province. The group used online job ads to attract young girls, particularly targeting those under 16 with promises of "food and lodging." Through intermediaries, they are said to have "purchased" these girls for sums between VND7–10 million ($270–$390). In May, two 15-year-old girls were contacted in Ho Chi Minh City and sold for VND10 million each. Despite their refusal to work as masseuses, they were forced to sign debt documents and were confined to the premises. The parlor doors were reportedly locked from the outside, and attempts to escape were met with aggression and theft of personal belongings. Police uncovered the situation during a raid, leading to the revelation of the girls' exploitation. During the trial on September 25, the victims' representatives sought VND30 million ($1,200) each in compensation for emotional distress. Judges questioned the defendants, emphasizing the gravity of treating people like commodities, though the accused remained largely silent. Prosecutors argued that the repeated exploitation of minors poses a significant societal threat. They are seeking jail sentences of nine to ten years for Ngan and up to 15 years for her accomplices. The verdict is anticipated on September 30, marking a potential conclusion to this high-profile case of human trafficking. Key Takeaways The case involves serious charges of forced labor and trafficking in Vietnam. Prosecutors argue for harsh penalties due to the exploitation's societal dangers. A court verdict is expected by the end of September. Click here for more Vietnam Stories Adapted by ASEAN Now from VN Express 2025-09-29
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