Tien returns home after 18 months in detention.

VietNamNet Bridge – The Procuracy Committee under the People’s Supreme Procuracy held a special meeting about former Transport Deputy Minister Nguyen Viet Tien’s part in the PMU18 scandal.

Lieutenant general Nguyen Viet Thanh, Vice Head of the Central Anti-Corruption Steering Board, said many opinions about Tien’s offence were expressed at the meeting.

Some said that there is not sufficient evidence to prosecute the former Deputy Minister for intentionally violating the state regulations on economic management, causing serious consequences (Article 165 of the Penal Code) and abuse of power in service (Article 281) like the investigation agency suggests. They said Tien should be charged for irresponsibility resulting in serious consequences (Article 285).

Previously, Tien was considered for three offences: intentionally violating state regulations on economic management, causing serious consequences; abusing power in service; and irresponsibility resulting in serious consequences.

However, during the supplementary investigation, investigators found some evidence favourable to Tien. In late December 2007, the investigation agency suggested procuracy agencies reconsider Tien’s criminal responsibility under Article 165 and 281 of the Penal Code.

Probes of corruption offences related to Tien, former PMU18 General Director Bui Tien Dung and seven other officials have been completed. This is one of 8 scandals that have been investigated under the Prime Minister’s direct guidance since 2006.

(Source: VNE)