Le Quang Cuong

On May 18, 2019, the public security of Tinh Gia District, Thanh Hoa Province, released administrative sanctioning decisions against four local workers-- Le Quang Cuong, Nguyen Thi Loan, Le Khac Linh and Dang Nguyen Tung. They were fined 7.5 million VND each (approximately 320 USD).

According to state media, Cuong and others were accused of using their Facebook accounts to post, share, and comment with content “defaming party leaders, the State, and public security forces of Tinh Gia District” when the officers were on duty to confiscate and expropriate land for some projects in Tinh Gia district and Nghi Son Economic zone. Due to the policy to expand these areas for economic development, Tinh Gia authorities have carried out many land grabs with “vague compensation policy”, causing grievances among the people, especially local residents. 

Moreover, the arbitrary practice and abuse of power of the public security forces are also shown in how they use the law. Degree 174/2013 regulating the administrative fines in Postal and Communication services, technological information, and radio waves does not regulate the online behavior of individuals.

Their mugshots were also shown by state media as if they committed criminal activities.