According to VietNamNet’s on-site reporting, the cemetery area shows hundreds of newly constructed tombs packed closely together, many without inscriptions, incense offerings, or any indication of actual burials. These structures appear to be built purely to reserve burial space, devoid of spiritual or commemorative purpose.

A representative from Thanh Liet ward’s People’s Committee explained that the Gio Ga cemetery was initially divided into two sections: a dry grave area for post-cremation reburials, and a fresh grave area for non-cremation burials. In past years, families used the latter for traditional in-ground burials before remains were later transferred.

However, with cremation now adopted universally in the area, the fresh grave section became obsolete. Over time, this unused land faced encroachment, illegal construction of graves, and even waste dumping, all of which negatively affected environmental hygiene and urban aesthetics.

To address the issue and prevent further violations, local residents and officials from Trieu Khuc had proposed allowing the construction of “waiting graves” on the vacant land. The proposal was approved by the former Tan Trieu commune authorities (prior to administrative restructuring).

Following this decision, the Trieu Khuc community built 367 symbolic graves - 243 double and 124 single tombs - using funds entirely contributed through social donations.

According to Thanh Liet ward authorities, only 36 of the 367 symbolic graves have so far been used for actual burials, all by residents from Trieu Khuc. Each burial was properly documented with handover records and financial contributions in line with local protocols.

The ward also confirmed that six newly constructed graves were recently identified as illegal encroachments by individuals who built on vacant land without authorization. Officials have directed the relevant agencies to dismantle these structures and restore the site.

The Thanh Liet Ward Police have opened an investigation into the case and pledged to strictly enforce the law if any violations are confirmed.

 
Tien Dung