Local officials in Kon Plong district, Kon Tum province, have launched an investigation after a viral video showed a group of tourists standing in a horizontal line across National Highway 24, stopping traffic to take photos near the Mang Den welcome gate.

The 24-second clip, posted on social media on April 7, shows approximately 14 female tourists dressed in colorful outfits blocking nearly the entire road to pose for a group photo. A sleeper bus was parked along the roadside, believed to be transporting the group from Kon Tum city to Mang Den town.

Due to the obstruction, a car had to swerve into the opposite lane to avoid hitting the group. At the time, there were several vehicles moving toward Mang Den, but the tourists appeared unaware or indifferent to the danger, continuing to pose for photos in the middle of the highway.

The video quickly attracted hundreds of thousands of views and sparked a wave of criticism online. Many viewers condemned the group’s actions as reckless and a serious threat to traffic safety.

In an interview with VietNamNet on April 8, Pham Van Thang, Vice Chairman of the Kon Plong District People's Committee, confirmed the incident and stated that it occurred during a holiday when tourist numbers surged in Mang Den.

“We’ve seen the footage and are instructing the relevant authorities to verify and handle the matter appropriately,” Mr. Thang said.

According to Mr. Thang, signs prohibiting stopping and parking have been installed in the area, and police have been stationed regularly to maintain order. However, the scenic stretch of road remains a popular photo spot for visitors, leading to occasional violations.

He also revealed that a local tour guide was involved in organizing the group and allowing them to enter the roadway for photos. “We will identify the individuals responsible, especially the guide, and apply strict measures in line with regulations,” the vice chairman affirmed.

Tran Hoan