HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam — Hesmati Norouz, a 43-year-old Iranian national, has been arrested by police in District 11, Ho Chi Minh City, for allegedly deceiving a store employee into giving him extra cash during a transaction. The suspect used a distraction technique to steal 20 million VND (around $820) from the store.
The incident took place on the evening of February 2, when D.H.H., a 23-year-old employee at a sports equipment store on Lac Long Quan Street, reported the theft to local authorities. According to H., Norouz entered the store, intending to buy a badminton racket valued at 1.3 million VND (approximately $53). During the transaction, the man requested to pay in foreign currency and handed over a $100 bill.
The Distraction and Theft
As H. was processing the payment, Norouz pointed to a stack of cash in the store’s register and requested his change in Vietnamese dong. However, he quickly grabbed the entire bundle of money and began shuffling the bills rapidly in front of the employee. He then returned the bundle and left the store.
It wasn’t until later that H. noticed something suspicious. Upon recounting the money, she discovered that 20 million VND ($820) was missing from the 33 million VND ($1,350) stack.
Investigation and Arrest
Following the report, District 11 Police launched an investigation. By February 4, police, working with Tan Binh District Police, located Norouz at an apartment in Ward 2, Tan Binh District.
Initially, Norouz denied the theft and gave inconsistent statements during questioning. However, after further interrogation, he eventually admitted to stealing the cash. Police recovered the stolen 20 million VND and returned it to the victim.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Authorities have completed the legal procedures to pursue charges against Norouz for fraudulent appropriation of property. He remains in custody as authorities prepare further legal actions.
