Vietnam hosts ASEAN summit to tackle cross-border criminal networks

Vietnam is hosting a major ASEAN conference focused on combating fugitive criminals and transnational crime, bringing together senior security officials from across the region to develop coordinated enforcement strategies.

The initiative comes as regional law enforcement agencies grapple with increasingly sophisticated criminal operations that exploit open borders and digital connectivity. According to Vietnam's Ministry of Public Security, the complexity of cross-border crime has grown substantially, requiring enhanced cooperation and intelligence sharing among ASEAN member states.

General Luong Tam Quang, Vietnam's Minister of Public Security, emphasized that deepening globalization and regional integration have created new vulnerabilities that criminal networks exploit. The convergence of economic development and increased people-to-people mobility has enabled wanted persons to operate across multiple jurisdictions, complicating traditional law enforcement efforts.

The conference is expected to focus on establishing better information-sharing protocols, coordinating extradition procedures, and strengthening border security measures. Officials aim to develop practical frameworks that enable faster identification and apprehension of fugitives while respecting each country's legal sovereignty.