Chinese man allegedly robs grocery store, flees across northern Vietnam

Zhang Peng Ju, a suspect in a store robbery in Hai Phong in northern Vietnam, in a photo provided by police. A 39-year-old Chinese national has been apprehended in northern Vietnam after allegedly robbing a grocery store in Hai Phong City of VND145 million (US$5,500) at knifepoint. The suspect, Zhang Peng Ju, was captured in Son La Province on Sept. 3, ending a four-day manhunt across multiple jurisdictions.The robbery took place on the evening of Aug. 27 on Do Nhuan Street of Hai Phong City. A masked assailant stormed the premises, held a sales associate at knifepoint, and emptied the cash drawer before fleeing the scene.Police quickly identified Zhang as the prime suspect. He had entered Vietnam in June seeking employment and was residing in the Hai An Ward, on the same street as the targeted store. Zhang Peng Ju’s alleged robbery at a grocery store in Hai Phong City as captured on security camera on Aug. 27, 2026.Upon his arrest, Zhang reportedly confessed that financial difficulties drove him to commit the crime. After obbserving the store's high customer traffic, he devised a plan to steal the daily earnings.Zhang disguised himself in full-coverage clothing, gloves, and a face mask. He carried out the attack using a fruit knife.