The Phu Quoc Special Zone People's Committee in An Giang Province has instructed local agencies to strengthen public awareness campaigns, encourage residents to surrender weapons and step up enforcement against illegal possession, trafficking and use.
Authorities said previous campaigns had led residents to surrender seven firearms, including military weapons, shotguns and hunting guns, along with seven rudimentary weapons and 39 lead pellets.
Despite these efforts, officials acknowledged that weapons collection campaigns had been inconsistent in some areas, while offences involving illegal weapons remained a concern.
Authorities highlighted incidents involving young people using knives and homemade weapons in group confrontations, personal disputes and public disturbances.
They also warned that increasingly sophisticated methods of trading and transporting weapons were making enforcement more difficult.
With the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meetings scheduled to take place in Phu Quoc in November 2027, local authorities have called for tighter weapons controls and a renewed crackdown on related offences.
Police have been instructed to intensify monitoring of online platforms, social media, transport services and express deliveries to detect illegal weapons sales, advertisements and instructions for making weapons.
Schools will also work with police to require students to sign pledges against violating regulations on weapons, explosives and related equipment.
Authorities have proposed holding public trials in selected high-profile weapons cases to strengthen deterrence and raise public awareness.
Phu Quoc currently maintains 51 collection points at neighbourhood offices where residents can surrender weapons, explosives and related equipment.
