Laos tightens control over illegal weapons

Vientiane: Laos' Ministry of Public Security has held a meeting to strengthen the prevention and resolution of firearms and explosives-related crimes.

The meeting, held in Lao capital Vientiane on Monday, was chaired by Minister of Public Security Vanthong Kongmany, the ministry said on Tuesday.

In his speech, Vanthong said the illegal possession, trade and use of firearms and explosives remain serious crimes that threaten lives and property, public security, social order and national development, reports Xinhua news agency.

He noted that the illegal firearms trade is a highly profitable transnational criminal activity and that the widespread availability and misuse of weapons continue to pose challenges to countries across the region.

The meeting reviewed the results of the nationwide firearms and explosives collection campaign for 2024-2026 and outlined priorities for the 2026-2028 plan.

In a separate development, Laos' Ministry of Public Security has officially launched the LAeID application nationwide and announced that old-style identity cards, including the white and green cards, will no longer be accepted for official transactions.

The move is part of Laos' broader digital transformation efforts, aimed at replacing the traditional census registration system with a modern electronic system. LAeID is designed to facilitate the management, verification and use of information contained in the national citizen database and identity card system, Lao News Agency reported on Monday.

The ministry has called on government ministries and agencies, local authorities, civil servants, businesses, and citizens nationwide to register and keep their personal information up to date through the LAeID application.

Electronic records stored through the system may serve as official references for employment-related matters and various transactions, reducing the need for traditional paper-based census registration books.

The ministry has urged all relevant organisations and individuals to cooperate with the transition to the electronic identity system and comply with the new requirements.

The Lao government reaffirmed its commitment to advancing digital transformation as a key driver of national development, continuing efforts to enhance e-government services, develop a digitally skilled workforce, and promote overall digital growth.

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