In Hanoi, man fined $95 for offering drugs to entice foreign tourists into massage parlors

The Ministry of Public Security’s Drug Crime Investigation Department said on Sunday that the video, which circulated on social media, sparked public outrage and damaged the image of the capital and Vietnam as a safe travel destination.

Major General Ngo Thanh Binh, head of the department, ordered a joint investigation with Hanoi police and Hoan Kiem Ward authorities.

Officers identified the suspect as H.Q.K., 54, a freelance worker in Hanoi.

He admitted to being the man in the clip.

K. told police he previously worked as a taxi driver and often interacted with foreign visitors.

In recent weeks, he had frequented the Old Quarter, approaching tourists with phrases such as 'weed, coke, MDMA' to gain their trust before directing them to massage parlors for commissions.

He denied directly selling drugs or knowing suppliers.

Authorities confirmed K. had no prior criminal record and tested negative for narcotics.

Based on the evidence, Hoan Kiem Ward police issued an administrative fine under Vietnam’s 2017 Tourism Law.

Police also warned massage businesses linked to the case to tighten operations and avoid similar violations.

Officials said they will continue monitoring the area, stepping up patrols to prevent illegal solicitation and protect Hanoi’s tourism environment.