A senior leader in the Mekong Delta city of Can Tho has assigned local agencies to quickly complete procedures to exempt Nguyen Ca Re, an electrician, from a hefty fine of VND90 million (US$3,860), after taking into consideration his economic hardship, Nguoi Lao Dong newspaper reported.

Senior Lieutenant Colonel Tran Van Duong speaks at a press briefing, held in Can Tho City on October 24, following the imposition of a hefty fine on an illegal money changer

Truong Quang Hoai Nam, vice chairman of Can Tho City, earlier today, November 5, met with Re to consider his letter requesting a reduction or exemption and heard reports on the confirmation by the competent agencies.

Earlier, Re was caught in the act of exchanging the US$100 bill for VND2.26 million at Nhan Dat Jewelry Thao Luc Shop in Ninh Kieu District in Cai Khe Ward by the municipal economic police on January 30.

He was slapped the huge fine of VND90 million in a decision by Can Tho City on October 23, and had his dollar bill confiscated. The jewelry outlet conducted the exchange without a license from the competent authorities, and was imposed a fine of VND295 million.

At the meeting, Re presented his situation and hoped to be exempted from the fine. According to the report released by the Can Tho Police, Re is the breadwinner of his family of six members, while he works as an electrician with a monthly income just above VND3 million (US$129).

SGT