Ministry responds to fight against drug trafficking and addiction

Speaking at the conference in Bac Giang Province, Minister Dao Ngoc Dung of the Ministry noted there were more than 210,000 drug addicts in the country, over 70% of whom are under 35 years of age, reported the Vietnam News Agency.

The number of drug traffickers and users had increased sharply over recent years, Minister Dung added.

During this year’s action month, the party, government, ministries and localities must reaffirm their commitment to join hands to further strengthen the fight against illegal drug use and reach out to illegal drug users and help them better reintegrate into society.

Deputy Prime Minister Truong Hoa Binh in turn said drug-related crimes and drug addiction are rampant in Vietnam. Past actions undertaken to combat illegal drug use and their sale have not proven effective.

To raise their efficacy, the Deputy PM requested ministries and departments comprehensively revaluate their approach to improving public awareness of drug-related crimes and their negative impact on society.

Local communities must get more involved in the struggle to contain the problem by strengthen monitoring of drug addicts and help them re-join mainstream society by finding gainful employment and live a normal life, Mr Binh underscored.