Vietnam Establishes Central Steering Committee for National Drug Control Program

The Vietnamese government has established a Central Steering Committee to effectively implement the National Target Program on Drug Prevention and Control. This committee will be responsible for researching, advising, and recommending to the Prime Minister on directions and solutions for guiding, directing, and organizing the implementation of the program. This decision reflects the escalating drug problem within Vietnam. For instance, Ho Chi Minh City alone processed over 4,000 drug-related cases in the first six months of this year. In Son La province, suspects transporting drugs rammed into law enforcement vehicles, highlighting the need for stringent crackdowns on cross-border illicit drug trafficking. Furthermore, the Chi Cuc Hai Quan khu VUC IX (Customs Branch of Area IX) has busted four drug cases, seizing over 68,000 "red pills" (commonly known as methamphetamine tablets). The government is also organizing seminars to enhance the role of media in drug prevention efforts. During a "peak month" for drug eradication, ten major drug cases and operations were carried out, leading to the arrest of 21 suspects. Under Vietnam's one-party system, maintaining social order and ensuring public safety is a top priority, with drug control being a core component. As the economy continues to grow, the proliferation of illicit drugs poses a threat to social stability, prompting the government to adopt comprehensive measures. For Vietnam, sharing a long border with China, preventing drug inflow is also a significant diplomatic and security concern.