The month-long programme, which will last until July 15, will be carried out in District 1's Pham Ngu Lao Ward.

Speaking at the launch on June 16, the deputy head of the Police Department for Administrative Management of Social Order, Ho Thi Lanh, said that after the COVID-19 pandemic, more people had lost their jobs. More homeless children and beggars had gathered in public places, affecting traffic, harassing tourists, and threatening social order and security.

"Some 1,566 homeless children and beggars have entered protection centres to ensure their health and safety," the police official said. "Individuals and organisations have abused many homeless children and disabled people to participate in illegal activities. We're intensifying this programme to make sure that no one is left behind".

At the ceremony, Nguyen Hoang Tam, chairman of the Pham Ngu Lao Ward People's Committee, said that more homeless children and beggars have appeared at Bui Vien Pedestrianised Street in District 1.

"We've tried to deal with the situation and seen positive results," he said. "But the problem may occur at any time, and we need co-operation from local people. If someone finds homeless children, beggars or those needing support, inform us on our hotline 111 or call the Pham Ngu Lao Ward People's Committee at 02838367384."