Deputy Trade Minister Arrested

Vietnamese Deputy Trade Minister Mai Van Dau was arrested Nov. 18 "following an investigation into a cash-for-quota scandal over textile exports to the United States," reports Agence France Presse, Nov. 18:

"Dau, 62, the most senior of four deputy ministers, was charged with "abuse
of power" and taken into custody after a search of his office and home in
the capital, the Hanoi Investigative Police Department said.

"He is the highest ranking official to have been arrested following a police
inquiry into the alleged sale of quotas by ministry officials to
Vietnam-based companies wishing to export garments to the United States.

"Four other trade ministry officials, including Dau's son, and around a dozen
businessmen and state employees have already been arrested in connection
with the case."