On February 28, 2025, the Ministry of Public Security of Vietnam announced significant changes to its operational structure, confirming the termination of district-level police activities effective March 1. This transformative adjustment aims to streamline the force from three levels to two, centering responsibilities at the provincial and communal levels. The announcement was made during a press briefing led by Deputy Minister Trần Quốc Tỏ.
According to representatives from the Ministry, the decision to dissolve district police intends to consolidate law enforcement efficiency and respond more adeptly to modern security challenges. With this reorganization, all cases currently under district police investigation will be transferred to provincial investigative units. This change will necessitate a transfer of files and evidence as well as the establishment of protocols for case management to facilitate the seamless transition.
The Ministry has put forth guiding documents to assist local authorities during this transition. Specifically, these documents outline the process for reviewing and transferring all records, case files, evidence, and relevant electronic data linked to criminal proceedings. This step ensures continuity of law enforcement activities, enabling continued responsiveness to crime reports from citizens.
Deputy Minister Tỏ emphasized, "For cases currently under review or temporarily suspended, the district police will issue transition documents along with lists detailing these cases to the appropriate provincial investigative branches to take over and resolve. Similarly, for cases still under investigation, corresponding documentation will be submitted to the local People's Procuracy to officially transfer the case to provincial authorities."
This restructuring also aims to address new duties mandated by the government to improve public safety and implement digital transformation strategies. The Ministry's representatives assured the public service continuity by enabling community-level police to more adequately serve citizens and businesses alike. The local police at the communal level are expected to manage initial reports and execute preliminary investigative activities as directed by provincial authorities.
Further changes include the Ministry of Public Security absorbing five major functions previously held by other governmental departments, including cybersecurity oversight from the Ministry of Information and Communications and aviation protection from the Ministry of Transport. For example, the Cybersecurity and High-Tech Crime Prevention Unit will now oversee these responsibilities, ensuring comprehensive management of public safety aspects correlated with technology.
During the press conference, Deputy Minister Tỏ also proposed the delegation of tasks related to drug addiction treatment and rehabilitation previously managed by the Ministry of Labor, Invalids, and Social Affairs. This shift is intended to consolidate efforts to combat drug-related crimes and improve rehabilitation services at the local level.
Finally, the Ministry confirmed it would take over jurisdiction concerning driver’s licenses from the Ministry of Transport, allowing police departments to manage licensing more effectively in coordination with local traffic management authorities. The local police stations will also assist citizens with processing license applications and renewals, heightening efficiency and accessibility.
This significant structural overhaul reflects the Ministry's commitment to adapting to modern policing needs and enhancing public trust through transparent and efficient law enforcement processes. The upcoming transition period and how officers at the communal level will adapt to their expanded roles resonate with the public's concerns about safety and community engagement.
Overall, the Ministry of Public Security is focusing on creating more modern policing frameworks to improve public safety responsiveness. By reducing the layers of bureaucracy and empowering local police forces, the Ministry aims to build stronger connections with communities across Vietnam.