Youths spark night-time chaos in Da Nang

These disturbances have left both residents and tourists frightened in a city known for its peaceful and livable atmosphere.

Residents reported that the situation has worsened in recent weeks.

Many have witnessed groups riding heavily modified motorbikes with concealed license plates, some even wielding weapons such as homemade spears or pepper spray, which they use to intimidate or attack passers-by.

“I was walking with my family when a group of about ten motorbikes sped by us, revving their engines loudly. Some were holding weapons — it was terrifying. I quickly moved to the sidewalk out of fear,” said Nguyen Dong, a tourist visiting the city.

On the nights of September 20 and 21, hundreds of young people gathered around Hai Thang Chin Square. 

They formed smaller groups that later converged at designated locations.

Many gather simply to wait for potential confrontations with rival groups.

Numerous incidents were recorded involving helmetless riders performing dangerous stunts. 

Others carried weapons while riding at dangerously high speed.

"I urge families to keep a close eye on their children and guide them properly. At the same time, I hope authorities will take strong action to address these dangerous and disruptive behaviors, which threaten public safety and damage the image of our city," said Le Thi Luan, a local resident.

What is even more concerning is how these reckless acts have evolved into dangerous 'performances,' often live-streamed on TikTok and other platforms.

These videos attract thousands of views, especially from young audiences, who often leave comments praising or glamorizing the behavior.

In the videos, young men can be seen openly carrying weapons while cruising city streets, ready to confront rival groups if tensions arise.

To many viewers, especially impressionable youths, these individuals appear 'cool' or 'tough,' further fueling the trend.

At around 3:00 am on September 21, a crash occurred between two motorcyclists speeding along Hai Thang Chin Street.

Within minutes, hundreds of onlookers surrounded the scene, blocking traffic. Many began filming or live-streaming the incident on social media.

Two other individuals then rode by and sprayed pepper spray into the crowd, causing panic.

On TikTok, viewers expressed curiosity about the crash, while streamers boasted about the presence of weapons and the chaos unfolding live.

When police arrived, the comment sections became even more active, with some viewers staying awake just to catch updates, including reports of police firing warning shots.

"Even though they know this behavior is illegal and dangerous, many youths treat it like a thrill-seeking game, or worse, as an achievement to brag about online," one resident said.

“They live-stream for views, completely disregarding the consequences."

Major General Nguyen Huu Hop, director of the Da Nang Department of Public Security, acknowledged that some individuals have become more aggressive, attempting to assert dominance in public spaces.

He urged the public to cooperate with authorities and report any such activities immediately.

“The municipal police have apprehended several offenders. I have instructed all investigation units to pursue and detain any individuals carrying weapons or disturbing public order. Whether the offenders are minors or adults, they will be dealt with strictly according to the law," Hop emphasized.