The VBOX and Karaoke VIP parlors in Tam Ky Town last Saturday were found still receiving guests despite an existing ban on non-essential services, including karaoke parlors, to curb the spread of the ongoing Covid-19 wave, local police said.

Nineteen guests were found at the two parlors, singing karaoke, drinking beer and even using drugs, police added.

The owners of each parlor now face fines of VND15 million for not abiding by the Covid-19 social distancing order, while guests would be fined VND2 million each for similar violations, police said.

Starting May 3, Quang Nam, home to tourist town Hoi An, has suspended all non-essential services like karaoke parlors, bars and dance clubs to curb the spread of the coronavirus. The province has recorded three local Covid-19 cases so far in Vietnam's latest wave that hit in late April.

Over six weeks into its fourth wave, the most challenging Vietnam has encountered, the country has recorded 7,524 cases in 40 of its 63 cities and provinces.

Bac Giang is leading the case count with 4,137 infections, followed by Bac Ninh with 1,352 and Ho Chi Minh City with 845.

Dac Thanh