Vo Van Ly and Nguyen Chi Thanh, former officers of the provincial Department Of Waterway Traffic Police, were found guilty of receiving bribes while Bui Ngoc Sen, former deputy director of Thanh Cong Commerce and Service Company, based in Vung Tau, was found guilty of giving bribes.

According to the indictment at the provincial People’s Court hearings, Sen gave Ly and Thang VND1 billion (US$56,000) early last March for allowing his ship to pass without inspection.

The ship contained 3,000 liters of oil, which Sen kept for himself instead of discharging at PVOIL port.

The money was shared half-half but Thanh said Ly, who had settled the deal with Sen, had told him that the two were lent the money to start their own businesses.

Thanh said he hadn’t taken bribes because he didn’t deal with Sen and only “borrowed” the money via Ly.

Sen and Ly both plead guilty.

Ly was sentenced to 14 years in prison, Thanh 11 years and Sen eight years.

The provincial prosecution agency earlier suggested Ly and Sen be imprisoned for 10-12 years while Thanh 7-8 years.

Reported by Thanh Nien staff