Systematic Crackdown on Independent Religious Practitioners in Dak Lak Province DAK LAK, VIETNAM

DAK LAK, VIETNAM — In a series of highly coordinated security operations on the morning of March 23, 2026, Vietnamese authorities executed multiple raids across the communes of Drai Bhang, Dur Kmăn, and Ea Knuêc. These actions targeted six prominent preachers belonging to independent Protestant house churches. The operations were characterized by a massive deployment of security personnel, tactical utility disruptions, and reported physical assaults on family members attempting to document the proceedings.

I. Incident Analysis by Sector

Drai Bhang Commune (Ea Khit Village)

At approximately 6:00 AM, a combined force of over 70 personnel—comprising commune police, provincial officers, and traffic police—surrounded the residences of local clergy. Authorities reportedly severed electrical power to the immediate neighborhood prior to the intervention to minimize external communication and visibility.

During this operation, Y Wen Niê and Y Bây Êban were forcibly removed and transported to a local station for interrogation. Witnesses report that family members were targeted for documenting the arrests. H Sêpôra Êban was allegedly struck by officers and her mobile device was seized. Similarly, H Da Êban was reportedly assaulted by three officers while filming; her iPhone XS was confiscated and the screen was intentionally destroyed.

Key personnel identified in this sector include Senior Lieutenant Colonel Y Thu Êban (Chief of Commune Police), Major Lê Ngọc Nam, and officers H Tinh Hwing and H Nghiê Êban.

Dur Kmăn Commune (Cuê Village)

A separate unit of approximately 50 officers initiated a sweep at 5:00 AM. This operation was notable for its rapid execution, preventing family members from effectively documenting the detentions. In this sector, authorities apprehended Y Yương Byă, Y Pôin Bdap, and Y An Hdruê.

Notably, Y An Hdruê was apprehended while working in a private agricultural plot. While family members of Y Pôin Bdap attempted to peacefully obstruct the arrest, they were bypassed by the sheer volume of the security force. Local sources identified Nguyễn Anh Tuấn, Y Bhem Ênuôl, and Y Đoan Ênuôl as participating officers.

Ea Knuêc Commune (Puôr Village)

At 5:30 AM, a contingent of 30 officers targeted the home of Y SăngTi Bkrông. As observed in the Drai Bhang raid, a strategic power outage preceded the arrival of the police, who subsequently took the preacher into custody for questioning.

II. Profile of the Targeted Individuals

The detainees share a common background of religious and civil engagement. All are members of independent house churches and have a history of participation in civil society training and annual international commemorations, specifically the International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief and Human Rights Day.

The individuals currently in custody include:

• Y Wen Niê
• Y Bây Êban
• Y An Hdruê
• Y Yương Byă
• Y Pôin Bdap
• Y SăngTi Bkrông
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III. Conclusion and Human Rights Implications

The synchronized nature of these raids suggests a systemic effort by Dak Lak provincial authorities to suppress independent religious leadership. The use of disproportionate force against civilians, the destruction of personal property to prevent documentation, and the targeting of individuals engaged in human rights education raise serious concerns regarding the violation of international religious freedom standards.

As of the afternoon of March 23, the six men remain in police custody for interrogation regarding their religious activities.

By: MSFJ TEAM