VIENTIANE: Laos' Ministry of Public Security has held a meeting to strengthen the prevention and resolution of firearms and explosives-related crimes.
The meeting, held in Lao capital Vientiane on Monday (Aug 17), was chaired by Minister of Public Security Vanthong Kongmany, the ministry said on Tuesday.
In his speech, Vanthong said the illegal possession, trade and use of firearms and explosives remain serious crimes that threaten lives and property, public security, social order and national development.
He noted that the illegal firearms trade is a highly profitable transnational criminal activity and that the widespread availability and misuse of weapons continue to pose challenges to countries across the region.
The meeting reviewed the results of the nationwide firearms and explosives collection campaign for 2024-2026 and outlined priorities for the 2026-2028 plan. - Xinhua
