Former Department of Cinema accountant sought for 36 billion VND embezzlement

The Supreme People's Procuracy has issued a request for Phạm Thanh Hải, a former accountant for the Department of Cinema, to surrender to authorities. Hải is accused of embezzling over 36 billion VND between 2008 and 2011.

According to investigators, Hải exploited administrative loopholes by creating fraudulent payment orders and documents, as well as forging leadership signatures. These methods were used to transfer funds from the Department of Cinema to the Saturday Cinema Center, from which the money was subsequently withdrawn in cash or transferred to various other locations.

The Ministry of Public Security recently concluded its investigation and transferred the case to the Supreme People's Procuracy, recommending prosecution for “embezzlement of property.” Although a warrant was issued in 2011, the case was officially reopened for investigation in June 2026. Authorities have warned that if Hải continues to remain at large, the Procuracy will consider it a waiver of the right to defense and proceed with prosecution and trial in absentia.