On December 19, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh issued Directive No. 136, calling for a comprehensive investigation and strict handling of violations related to a tragic fire at a café in Co Nhue 2 Ward, Bac Tu Liem District, Hanoi.

The directive was addressed to ministers, ministry heads, and chairpersons of the People's Committees of Hanoi and other provinces and cities nationwide.

At approximately 11 p.m. on December 18, a fire broke out at a café in Co Nhue 2 Ward, killing 11 people and leaving others injured. On behalf of the government, Prime Minister Chinh extended his condolences to the victims' families.

He instructed the Minister of Public Security to direct relevant authorities to focus on overcoming the aftermath, promptly investigate the case, and prosecute the offender in accordance with the law to deter future crimes.

The directive also emphasized the need for police and local authorities to enhance crime prevention, especially during the upcoming Tet holiday season. Measures include stepping up public awareness campaigns and addressing crimes stemming from personal conflicts and public disturbances.

The Hanoi People’s Committee was tasked with organizing timely support for victims’ families, including both material and emotional assistance. The Ministry of Health was directed to ensure the best possible care for those injured in the fire.

Authorities identified and arrested C.V.H., a 50-year-old resident of Dong Anh District, Hanoi, as the suspect in the café fire. Initial investigations revealed that H., who had been drinking beer at the café, had a dispute with its staff. Enraged, he poured gasoline in the ground-floor area, which was crowded with motorbikes, and set it ablaze. He fled as the fire spread.

H. was arrested shortly after midnight on December 19. He has been charged with murder, and authorities are investigating the motive, cause, and victim identities to ensure justice.

Firefighters received reports of the fire at 11:03 p.m. and quickly dispatched teams from multiple districts to the scene. They extinguished the blaze within 40 minutes, rescuing seven people - two of whom were hospitalized. Unfortunately, 11 people were found deceased inside.

The gravity of the situation drew Hanoi Party Secretary Bui Thi Minh Hoai and Police Director Lieutenant General Nguyen Hai Trung to the scene to oversee rescue and investigative operations.

The Prime Minister reiterated the importance of fire prevention and safety, urging strict enforcement of fire regulations, particularly in crowded venues during the holiday season. The directive highlighted public education and stricter compliance to prevent similar tragedies.

Thu Hang