Customs launches operation against trafficking of arms

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Guns transported by courier seized by Hanoi Customs. Photo: Ngoc Linh

From February 1, 2022 to June 30, 2022, the Regional Intelligence Liaison Office for Asia and the Pacific (RILO AP) under the World Customs Organization (WCO) organized Operation IRENE III which targets to combat the illicit trade and transportation of small arms and light weapons in Asia-Pacific (Operation IRENE III) with the participation of the regional countries, including Vietnam Customs.

The operation is to strengthen information exchange and cooperation between competent authorities of countries to fight illegal trading and transportation of small arms, light weapons and explosives which pose risks to safety, security and social order.

To actively control, promptly detect and handle violations and crimes related to the above-mentioned illegal trading and transportation activities of arms and demonstrate prestige, efforts and responsibility of Vietnam Customs in realizing relevant international commitments, Vietnam Customs has approved the Letter of Invitation to participate in Operation IRENE III at the request of RILO AP.

Regarding the content of Operation IRENE III, the member countries participating in the operation shall strengthen the collection of information on methods and tricks of smuggling and illegal transportation of small arms, light weapons and explosives through the air cargo, sea cargo, express service, postal service and luggage, to analyse, warn and identify key suspects; conduct documentary and physical inspection for suspect shipments.

In case of detecting signs of violation, the authorities shall apply necessary measures in accordance with the laws of member countries to promptly prevent, arrest, handle or report to RILO AP for handling.

The ‘feat of arms’ of Hai Phong Customs Department in the beginning of the year

Member countries are responsible for coordination in sharing and providing information on violations through the CENcomm intelligence system and updating the handling results on the system.