Vietnam Set to Expand Graft Probe Into Misuse of Key Energy Fund

  • Planned crackdown underscores urgency to resolve energy issues
  • Authorities previously detained a former deputy trade minister

Nguyen Phu Trong 

Photographer: Minh Hoang/AFP/Getty Images
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Vietnam is preparing to widen a probe into alleged corruption among officials connected to the energy sector as the Southeast Asian country seeks to gain control over a worsening power crisis, according to officials with knowledge of the matter.

An investigation that has ensnared senior trade officials in recent weeks over accusations of bribery, poor oversight and other abuses of power is set to be extended to the alleged mishandling of the nation’s nearly $300 million petroleum price stabilization fund, according to two people familiar with the situation.