Hanoi's Public Security leads by example in the new era - Part II

THE HANOI TIMES — Hanoi, as the strategic heart of national security and public order, has always received strong leadership and guidance from the Party Central Committee, the Politburo, the Secretariat, the State President, the Government and the National Assembly.

The city also benefits from close coordination and support from central ministries and agencies, especially the Central Public Security Party Committee and the Ministry of Public Security. Thanks to this synergy, the Party, Government and people of the capital have consistently fulfilled their political tasks with distinction, achieving positive results across all fields, most importantly in safeguarding political stability, security and social order.

In recent months, Hanoi completed the country’s most extensive administrative restructuring at the commune and ward level, reducing its total from 526 to just 126 units, with strong public consensus and support.

Since July 1, 2025, the two-tier local government model has been operating smoothly and stably. Alongside this major reorganization, the capital has continued to deliver on its three core pillars: economic growth, national defense and security and social welfare.

The city’s economic performance has been particularly notable with gross regional domestic product (GRDP) in the first half of this year rising 7.63%, surpassing both the same period last year (6.13%) and the national average (7.52%). State budget revenue in the city reached VND392.2 trillion, 77.6% of the annual target and up 51.4% year-on-year.

Major infrastructure projects are also underway, including the groundbreaking of Tu Lien Bridge, preparations for the inauguration of the new National Exhibition Center and planning for additional key bridges and roads.

At the same time, the Hanoi Party Committee has been implementing the Politburo’s Directive No. 45 on preparations for the 14th National Party Congress, ensuring that draft political reports and documents reflect both central directives and the realities of the capital, while outlining a renewed vision for Hanoi’s development in the coming years.

Defense and security tasks have been comprehensively directed, with economic development closely tied to strengthening national defense, public security and diplomacy. Hanoi has built a strong all-people defense posture in parallel with people-based security, supported by robust local armed forces.

Within this effort, the Hanoi public security force have played a central role. As the force directly responsible for safeguarding political stability and public safety in the nation’s political and administrative hub, they have matured into one of the country’s most exemplary and professional units. Their contributions extend beyond high-profile arrests and operations, encompassing the quiet but vital work of keeping every street and neighborhood safe.

Under the close leadership of the Ministry of Public Security and the Hanoi Party Committee, the force has successfully prevented hostile activities, maintained strategic security and ensured the absolute safety of more than 2,000 major events annually.

Recent crackdowns have dismantled dangerous criminal networks, including cross-border fraud rings and high-tech crime syndicates, winning praise from both the ministry and city leaders.

Honors and sacrifices

For their exceptional achievements, the Hanoi Police have been honored with some of the nation’s highest awards, including five visits and commendations from President Ho Chi Minh, the Gold Star Order (the only provincial-level police force to receive it), two Ho Chi Minh Orders, and three titles of Hero of the People’s Armed Forces. Numerous collectives and individuals within the force have also been awarded national honors.

These accolades rest on a foundation of sacrifice. Nearly 400 Hanoi police officers laid down their lives during the resistance wars against French colonialism and American imperialism, with thousands more wounded. Even in peacetime, dozens have died and hundreds have been injured while combating crime since the beginning of the doi moi (renewal) process. Their legacy of “Selfless devotion to the nation and service to the people” remains deeply etched in the hearts of the capital’s citizens.

The force has also stood at the frontline in times of crisis, whether during the Covid-19 pandemic, devastating storms like Super Typhoon Yagi, or international humanitarian missions. Hanoi police officers have joined Ministry of Public Security delegations to assist in disaster relief in countries such as Turkey and Myanmar, embodying the resilience, solidarity, and humanitarian spirit of Vietnam’s security forces.

The achievements of Hanoi’s police force have helped curb crime, raise public awareness of the law and make the capital a safe, reliable and attractive destination for world leaders, foreign investors and both domestic and international visitors.

Images of heads of state and international politicians strolling through Hanoi’s streets, sampling local cuisine and chatting with residents have become familiar sights. They serve as vivid proof of a peaceful Hanoi and a friendly and hospitable capital, reflecting the professionalism, dedication, and commitment of the city’s police force.

Today, the Hanoi Police are not only guardians of security but also pioneers in reform and innovation. They have taken the lead in implementing the national digital transformation strategy, especially under Project 06 on population data and electronic identity. They have reorganized their structure in line with the streamlined two-tier local government system, providing practical models for other localities.

Most recently, on July 31, 2025, the force launched four landmark digital applications, including an AI-powered operator and chatbot offering 24/7 services for administrative procedures and crime reporting, intelligent emergency hotlines 113 and 114, a digital Hanoi Police Museum, and a smart electronic archiving system.

These innovations mark the first steps toward a fully digitalized police force, where technology and artificial intelligence enhance operations, improve public services and strengthen the safety of the capital.

Part III - Hanoi’s police uphold vow to serve the nation and its people

PART 1 - Pride in the sharp sword and steel shield that protect the Party, State and People