Coast guard force honoured for anti-smuggling work

Quang Nam (VNA) – The High Command of the Vietnam Coast Guard Region 2 has been rewarded with the Feat Order (third class) for its achievements in fighting smuggling, trade fraud and counterfeits, helping ensure security and safety in coastal areas.

The Feat Order, a reward of the State President, was presented at a ceremony held in Tam Quang commune of Nui Thanh district, the central province of Quang Nam, on May 16.

The High Command reportedly has performed well in managing the sea area from Con Co Island of Quang Tri province to Cu Lao Xanh Island of Binh Dinh province. Notably, in an anti-smuggling campaign in late 2017, it made progress in protecting the fishing grounds and marine environment of Vietnam.

Over nearly two months, the coast guard force proved two Singaporean oil tankers had transported almost 9 million litres of diesel oil without legal documentation, forcing the goods owners, captains and crew members to admit their violations.

The two vessels were fined more than 332 million VND (14,600 USD) while all of the oil was confiscated and auctioned for nearly 90 billion VND (3.9 million USD) which was later contributed to the State budget.

This was the biggest smuggling and trade fraud case at sea uncovered since the Vietnam Coast Guard was established in 2004. 

With this success, the High Command of the Coast Guard Region 2 was honoured with the Feat Order by the State President. Certificates of merit were also presented to collectives and individuals.-VNA