Two men wanted in connection with the public assassination of a suspected Sydney underworld figure have been arrested in Vietnam. Lorenzo Lamalu, 24, was shot dead at a restaurant in Ho Chi Minh City on Thursday night. CCTV footage captured the moment a gunman opened fire on Lamalu and another man on a footpath in front of horrified onlookers.
Arrests Made in Ho Chi Minh City
On Tuesday, Steve Tofa and Joseph Va'a were arrested in Ho Chi Minh City in connection with the alleged murder. However, it is believed they have yet to be charged. The two men are thought to be Samoan nationals, with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) confirming they are not Australian citizens.
Attempted Escape to Cambodia
Vietnamese police allege the two men were arrested while attempting to flee the country into Cambodia. Authorities released images of the suspected shooters, who were originally believed to be Australian. 7NEWS understands the pair travelled to Vietnam using fake passports and names: Lang Kenny Trong Minh Do and Justin John White.
Background of the Victim
Lamalu is believed to be the mastermind behind a Sydney criminal organisation colloquially known as the "Coconut Cartel," which declared war on the rival Alameddine gang earlier this year. His associate, Sam Sauni, 27, was critically injured in the attack.
Ongoing Investigation
Investigations into the shooting are ongoing, with the Australian Federal Police working alongside local Vietnamese authorities. An update is expected later on Tuesday.
