Brian Jeffrey
An investigation into the treatment of children at Hoa Hong Shelter has uncovered shocking revelations.
On September 5th, authorities disclosed initial findings regarding child abuse at the Hoa Hong Shelter in Ho Chi Minh City. Following media reports, the police swiftly initiated an investigation.
The shelter, which exceeded its licensed capacity by caring for 86 children, was inspected. Interviews were conducted with the owner, Giap Thi Song Huong, and all staff members present.
Initial investigations revealed the involvement of five caretakers in child abuse. One caretaker, Nguyen Thi Ngoc Cam, admitted to physically assaulting the children to instill fear and maintain discipline.
The District 12 Police, with support from the Prosecutor’s Office, found grounds to detain Cam pending further investigation on charges of “Abusing Others.” Efforts are underway to locate and question the remaining three caretakers.
Many of the children have been relocated to safer facilities, including Tam Binh Child Protection Center, Thủ Đức Youth Village, and Go Vap Children’s Village, following the abuse revelations.
Department of Children Director Dang Hoa Nam addressed the media and highlighted the oversight in detecting abuse in licensed shelters. He emphasized the necessity for thorough reviews of inspection processes and swift implementation of corrective measures.
The Department of Labor, Invalids, and Social Affairs has directed local authorities to promptly enhance child care measures, review facility licensing, and manage the transfer of children to appropriate locations. Nam suggested enhancing surveillance through cameras and increasing social worker involvement to prevent and address future incidents of abuse.
Dam De
