The 25th SEA Games Security Committee reported this week that officials are working to provide a safe and secure environment before the games commence in December this year.
Brigadier General Toula Inthathilath said the committee is cooperating with military forces and district and village security officers to investigate suspected troublemakers.
Of particular concern are criminals who are repeat offenders and continue to commit crimes after release from prison.
“These criminals continue on a life of crime and continue to be involved in anti-social behaviour such as drug dealing and robbery,” he said.
Brigadier General Toula, who is also Deputy Minister of Public Security believes many of the city's crime problems stem from criminals who don't realise the error of their ways and continue to commit crimes after release from prison.
“When they return to crime, the courts will increase their sentences,” he said.
The Ministry of Public Security recently held a meeting to encourage security officials around the nation to continue to crackdown on crime and anti-social behaviour, particularly in Vientiane where the SEA Games will be held.
“The meeting urged participants from around the country to work on the ministry's plan for security. Vientiane is a high priority for social order and security in the lead-up to the games and other important events in the future,” Brigadier General Toula said.
Security officials have advised people to take steps to avoid becoming victims of crime, including locking their houses at night and not driving on isolated and unlit streets late at night.
According to the Vientiane Mai newspaper, a monthly meeting of Vientiane administration officials received reports of security issues in the city in June and July.
Around 160 cases ranging from drug dealing, bag snatching, robbery and assault were reported. Security officials solved 97 cases and arrested 192 people, Vientiane Mai reported.
In the same period there were 99 road accidents with five fatalities, according to the newspaper.
“We believe by targeting the right groups of criminals we can make Vientiane a safe, secure and peaceful city for all,” Brigadier General Toula said.
By Souknilundon Southivongnorath
Vientianetimes
