Tran Huy Lieu Street used to be a complicated area for drug abuse.

Determination to transform

As a central area with many places for trading, shopping and sightseeing, Dong Ba ward used to be a place where criminals took advantage of to operate, including drug abuse. In particular, Tran Huy Lieu street often saw drug addicts gathering, causing disorder.

Mr. Nguyen Van Dung, a resident in this area, shared: Before, every night I passed this street, I felt worried. Many strange young men gathered, needles were thrown everywhere. Now it is different, the street is clean, bright, and security is much better.

To change this situation, the Dong Ba ward government has implemented a series of synchronous measures. One of the important steps is to issue Resolution 10-NQ/DU, creating a strong change in the awareness and action of the entire political system. In particular, implementing the work of transforming the drug-complex Tran Huy Lieu street into a green - clean - bright and safe street in terms of security and order. After 3 years of implementation (from 2022-2024), the results have been very positive. According to the Dong Ba ward police, the functional forces have increased inspection and handling of complicated hotspots, especially on Tran Huy Lieu street. The police have handled 36 cases of sidewalk encroachment, and demolished a trading point encroaching on the roadway in the alley connecting Phan Dang Luu - Tran Huy Lieu streets, where drug addicts took advantage to illegally buy and sell drugs. At the same time, lighting systems were added in 8 low-light locations, and security cameras were installed in essential locations, helping to reduce the risk of criminals taking advantage of the darkness to operate.

After discovering 10 locations and 20 individuals involved in the illegal trading, storage, and use of drugs, the ward police took uncompromising measures against this type of crime; coordinated and directly fought to clarify 38 cases/39 individuals, seized nearly 1,600 drug pills; expelled 8 mobile individuals from outside the area...

Towards a safe and civilized Dong Ba

“The local government not only focuses on crime suppression but also promotes propaganda to raise people's awareness,” said Hoang Thanh Hue, Vice Chairman of Dong Ba Ward People's Committee. 25 communication sessions on drug prevention and control have been held in the ward, attracting hundreds of participants. In particular, propaganda programs in the form of "Mock Trials" in residential areas have helped many young people and people better understand the harmful effects of drugs.

Ms. Le Thi Hang, a resident of Dong Ba Ward, shared: “After participating in the propaganda sessions, I know more about the signs of drug addicts and how to report to the neighborhood group or the ward police when I discover a stranger with suspicious signs. Now, everyone in the neighborhood is aware of their responsibility in maintaining security and order.”

Dong Ba Ward also implemented the model of “Drug-free Neighborhood Groups” in Area 4, and at the same time, strengthened the civil defense team in the neighborhood groups. The government also issued regulations for this model, encouraging people to proactively monitor, detect and report violations.

“Not only strictly handling violators, the local government also focuses on helping former addicts reintegrate into the community. Those in particularly difficult circumstances are supported in vocational training and finding jobs to avoid the risk of reoffending. The ward also cares about children whose parents have violated the law. Four children have been supported in terms of learning conditions, helping them stay away from negative temptations,” said Vice Chairman of Dong Ba ward Hoang Thanh Hue.

According to local leaders, during the implementation process, Dong Ba has learned many important lessons. That is, propaganda work must be carried out continuously and extensively to raise people's awareness of drug prevention and control. Reintegration support needs to be flexible and close to reality so that former offenders have the opportunity to rebuild their lives. Monitoring and handling of "hot spots" requires close coordination between functional forces and the community.

The goal of “Drug-free Dong Ba Ward” is no longer a slogan but is gradually becoming a reality. With the determination of the government and the cooperation of the people, Dong Ba is changing day by day, gradually becoming a safe and civilized central ward.

Article and photos: LIEN MINH

Source: https://huengaynay.vn/chinh-tri-xa-hoi/phap-luat-cuoc-song/phuong-dong-ba-noi-khong-voi-ma-tuy-152627.html