According to Quang Ninh Police, economic crime officers have stepped up efforts to prevent and tackle offences involving nitrous oxide (N2O), which poses serious health risks.
The crackdown follows a National Assembly resolution adopted on November 30, 2024, banning the production, trade, import, storage, transport and use of harmful and addictive gases and substances from 2025.
Inter-agency guidelines issued on June 25 also provide for criminal prosecution under Articles 190 and 191 of the Penal Code where offences meet the relevant legal criteria.
Medical experts warn that nitrous oxide abuse can damage the nervous system, impair memory, cognition and movement, and lead to mental health disorders with prolonged use.
Police have intensified inspections and surveillance, targeting the illegal sale, storage, transport and use of laughing gas while raising public awareness of its dangers.
Since the beginning of the year, authorities have handled 39 cases involving 60 people through criminal or administrative proceedings, seized and destroyed 8,109 gas canisters and imposed administrative fines totalling VND 589 million (USD 22,400).
Economic crime police said they would continue coordinating enforcement efforts and urged residents to avoid illegal activities involving laughing gas and report suspected violations.