Lao Cai Province Aims for 'Drug-Free Communes' by 2026

Lao Cai Province in northern Vietnam is accelerating its efforts to achieve an ambitious goal: to designate all its communes and wards as 'drug-free areas' by February 2026. This initiative, based on Resolution No. 51-NQ/TU issued by the Lao Cai Provincial Party Committee, aims to fundamentally and sustainably promote the eradication of drug crimes, ensuring peaceful and happy lives for residents and creating a safe environment for socio-economic development. To achieve this objective, Lao Cai Province is demonstrating a firm stance against drug-related offenses. Recent cases include the apprehension of suspects involved in illegal drug trafficking near the Vietnam-Laos border, the dismantling of a particularly serious maritime drug smuggling route, and the disruption of a transnational drug trafficking and smuggling ring that led to the arrest of 740 individuals. These incidents highlight the pervasive and serious threat posed by drug crimes that transcend borders. The efforts in Lao Cai Province are also aligned with the broader context of strengthening drug prevention measures across Vietnam. The Communist Party of Vietnam recognizes the critical importance of the drug issue for national stability and development, and is continuously implementing nationwide anti-drug campaigns. In particular, as Vietnam continues its economic growth, drugs are viewed as a potential risk that could threaten social safety and negatively impact economic activities. Lao Cai Province's target is also positioned as part of a wider national objective to achieve drug-free status in at least 50% of communes and wards by 2030. Given its border with China, the region is geographically susceptible to becoming a drug smuggling corridor. Therefore, achieving this goal will be a significant step not only for ensuring regional community safety but also for national anti-drug efforts. Source: Nhan Dan