Diplomatic Tensions: Vietnamese Officials Evade Extradition After Assault Allegations in New Zealand

Two Vietnamese officials accused of sexually assaulting two young female servers in New Zealand have avoided extradition after attempts to return them failed, authorities announced Thursday.

The absence of an extradition treaty between New Zealand and Vietnam resulted in legal hurdles, leading to the Vietnamese government needing to voluntarily hand over the accused. This did not occur, prompting disappointment from New Zealand's Prime Minister Christopher Luxon.

The victims, including Ali Cook, reported being indecently assaulted, a charge punishable by up to seven years in New Zealand. Lack of progress in extradition proceedings has highlighted diplomatic challenges and sparked criticism about the incident's handling and future international cooperation implications.

(With inputs from agencies.)