The Hanoi People's Procuracy has formally charged Doan Bao Chau, a martial arts instructor born in 1968, with the crime of disseminating information aimed at undermining the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. The charges stem from his activities on social media, where he allegedly broadcast false and defamatory statements about the government.

According to the indictment, on May 2, 2024, the Hanoi Police's Investigation Security Agency received a report regarding Chau's activities, which were forwarded by the Cybersecurity and High-Tech Crime Prevention Department. The report indicated that Chau participated in live broadcasts on the "BBC Vietnamese" YouTube channel and his personal Facebook account "Chau Doan," where he allegedly spread distorted information, slandered the people's government, and incited public unrest.

On April 24, 2025, the Investigation Security Agency initiated a criminal case against Chau, and by June 30, 2025, they issued an arrest warrant for him. However, at that time, Chau had fled, leading authorities to issue a wanted notice on July 25, 2025.

Investigations revealed that Chau created his Facebook account "Chau Doan" in 2007 and, between 2016 and 2021, used it to post videos that included interviews with various individuals. Forensic analysis concluded that six of these videos contained content that promoted psychological warfare, spread false information, and defamed the reputation of individuals and organizations.

Chau is now facing serious charges that could lead to significant legal consequences if convicted. The case highlights ongoing concerns regarding freedom of expression and the government's stance on dissent in Vietnam.