Taking care for drug addicts (photo: Thai Hung/VNA)

Located close to the "Golden Triangle" and having a long land and sea border, Vietnam has been a transit for international drug criminals.

Major General Nguyen Van Vien, Director of the Drug Crime Investigation Police Department, said: “Land routes are still the main itinerary, including the north central and Central Highlands routes. Cha Lo border gate in Quang Binh province, Cau Treo border gate in Ha Tinh province, and Nam Can and Ky Son border gates in Nghe An province are the most active. The northwest provinces are finding synthetic drugs and heroin. In the southwest, Vietnamese smugglers are colluding with Cambodians to transport drugs by boats and trucks.”

Vietnam has strengthened drug prevention and control by signing treaties and agreements with neighboring countries, international organizations, and partners.

Cross-border meetings are held quarterly to access the situation in border areas. Vietnam will observe its annual Month of Action against Drugs in June. This year's drug prevention month aims to improve the effectiveness of drug addiction treatment and management for a healthier, safer community.

Vietnam participates in cooperation mechanisms on drug prevention and control of the United Nations Drug Control Commission and programs of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crimes. The Drug Crime Investigation Police Department cooperates closely with the US Drug Enforcement Administration, the Australian Federal Police, and Interpol.