A recent investigation in Thanh Hoa has uncovered a significant corruption scandal involving Cao Tien Doan, the chairman of Dong A Real Estate Group, and several high-ranking provincial officials. The inquiry, conducted by the Thanh Hoa Provincial Police, revealed that Doan allegedly paid substantial bribes to various officials to secure favorable treatment for a residential project in Quang Thanh.

According to the investigation's findings, former provincial secretary Do Trong Hung received a total of $150,000 from Doan over multiple occasions, while former vice-chairman Nguyen Van Thi was given $200,000 in a discreet exchange on a quiet road. The investigation noted that these payments were made in connection with the approval processes for the Quang Thanh residential project, which is strategically located near National Highway 1A.

In 2024, following a plea from Doan regarding financial difficulties in maintaining a local football club, Hung allegedly expedited the approval process for the project, which ultimately sold for 255 billion VND (approximately $11 million). However, investigators determined that the starting price for the auction was improperly set at over 262.2 billion VND, resulting in a budget shortfall of 7.2 billion VND for the province.

Throughout the investigation, it was revealed that Doan had made multiple payments to various officials, including 11 instances where he provided funds to Hung during national holidays and celebrations. In total, these payments amounted to $150,000. Additionally, other officials, such as Do Minh Tuan, the provincial chairman, received smaller amounts totaling 20,000 USD and 1.5 billion VND.

The investigation also highlighted that Doan had distributed funds to other officials within Thanh Hoa City, including Lê Mai Khanh, the former vice-chairman, who received 4.8 billion VND. The findings suggest a widespread network of corruption, with many officials implicated in receiving bribes or benefiting from the project.

As a result of these findings, the investigation has recommended the prosecution of 22 individuals for various offenses, including violations related to asset auction activities and abuse of power. Specifically, Cao Tien Doan faces charges related to the auction process and tax evasion, with allegations that he established fraudulent accounting practices to evade over 15.7 billion VND in taxes.

This scandal has raised serious concerns about corruption within the provincial administration and the integrity of public officials in Thanh Hoa.