In a significant shift in law enforcement strategy, the province has embarked on a major reorganization of its police force, leading to the dissolution of district-level police and the delegation of responsibilities to both provincial and communal police.
According to sources, this restructuring is intended to enhance the effectiveness of local police operations. After just three weeks of implementing a new model, the provincial police have reported a marked improvement in their ability to maintain security and public order. Senior Lieutenant Colonel Vu Thi Le Ha, who previously served as the Deputy Chief of the Dong Trieu City Police, is now leading the police forces in Mao Khe Ward. She is a notable figure in this transition, as she is the only one among district-level police leaders in the province who has voluntarily moved to the commune-level police.
Following the reorganization, the police force in Mao Khe Ward saw an increase from 18 officers to 28, allowing each officer to manage about 300 residents, a significant reduction from the previous ratio of 500-700 people per officer. This model is designed not only to make policing more personal but also to improve response times to local issues. Lieutenant Colonel Ha remarked on this development, stating, "Now that I am working closer to the community, I can address issues as they arise—before they escalate. This model fosters better community relations and enhances our ability to prevent crime effectively."
In another area of the province, the Hong Thai Dong Commune Police also experienced a boost in personnel. The department was reinforced with four additional officers, including a new Chief who previously led the General Investigation Team within the Dong Trieu City Police. This enhanced manpower has made a considerable difference, enabling the Hong Thai Dong police to effectively manage public safety with a team of nine regular officers and 25 grassroots security personnel. Their model emphasizes local engagement and addresses crime prevention at the grassroots level.
Major General Nguyen Huy Quyền, the Chief of Hong Thai Dong Police, noted the importance of having officers who are deeply familiar with the community they serve. "With years of experience in investigative work, I have transitioned my focus to a broader array of responsibilities here in the commune. By understanding our community's dynamics, we're more effective in preventing crime and addressing residents’ needs proactively. It's essential that our officers are visible and accessible to the public," he asserted.
The restructuring initiative, which has seen the provincial police absorb some district-level responsibilities, aims to promote a proactive approach to law enforcement. Police officials are now organizing work groups throughout the province, aiming to preempt incidents and stay ahead of potential crises. The overarching goal is to reduce crime rates by 5% compared to the previous year, a task the police view not just as a target, but as a commitment to public safety and community well-being.
Overall, residents have expressed their support for the reorganization. Local citizens, like Nguyen Trong Cong from Vinh Quang 1, have noted that the new structure allows for convenience when resolving administrative procedures at the communal police office compared to the previous city-level police structure. “It’s much easier to deal with our local police now; it feels more approachable and efficient,” he shared.
This reform represents a significant departure from traditional policing methods and highlights a shift toward community-focused law enforcement. By empowering local police forces and reducing bureaucracy, authorities hope to create a more integrated and responsive policing environment.
Though the changes have just begun, the early signs indicate that the new model is working. With reports of heightened security and improved community relations, both police leadership and residents are optimistic about the future.
The effectiveness of this approach will be closely monitored in the months to come, as the province strives to not only meet its crime reduction targets but also to enhance the quality of life for its citizens. With strong leadership and a community-centric focus, the new policing strategies in the province could serve as a model for other regions considering similar reforms.
