Authorities in Dong Nai Province have arrested Le Van Tiep, Chairman of the Long Thanh District People’s Committee, for his alleged involvement in violations related to land acquisition, compensation, and resettlement in the Long Thanh International Airport project.

Criminal charges and ongoing investigation

The Dong Nai Provincial People's Procuracy has approved the decision to prosecute and temporarily detain Le Van Tiep on charges of violating regulations on land compensation and resettlement during the government's land acquisition process.

On the evening of February 7, law enforcement officials arrived at Tiep’s residence in Van Hai, Long Thanh Town, to conduct legal proceedings.

This arrest is part of a broader investigation into corruption and misconduct related to the Long Thanh Airport compensation and resettlement project, which has a total investment of over 22 trillion VND ($890 million). The project, approved by the Prime Minister in 2018, involves clearing 5,000 hectares for airport construction and 364 hectares for two resettlement areas.

Wider crackdown on land corruption

The case has already led to several earlier arrests. In November 2024, three officials were detained, including:

Pham Viet Manh, an officer at the Long Thanh Land Development Center, for accepting bribes.

Nguyen Tan Bien, a land management official in Loc An Commune, and Tran Ngoc Han, for fraud and asset misappropriation.

On December 4, 2024, investigators conducted a search at the Long Thanh District Cultural and Sports Center, which houses records related to land acquisition, compensation, and resettlement for the airport project.

Authorities have confirmed that the case remains under active investigation, with further legal proceedings expected.

Hoang Anh