Hanoi police announced on 23/12 that the investigative police agency is holding Cuong, a resident of Khuong Dinh ward, for illegal drug use.

Doan Viet Cuong working with police. Photo: Police provided

The incident occurred at noon on 17/12. Cuong was driving a seven-seater vehicle on Lang Street when he collided with an electric car traveling in the same direction. He then swerved and struck the side of a four-seater vehicle stopped at a red light at Nga Tu So intersection, which is in Dong Da ward.

Following the chain collision, Cuong’s vehicle overturned. He was trapped inside the cabin, appearing disoriented, and passersby assisted in his rescue.

At the scene, the electric car sustained front-end damage; the four-seater had a dented side; and Cuong’s vehicle had broken windows, a damaged body, and deployed airbags.

Police conducted a rapid test, confirming Cuong was positive for drugs. He was under post-rehabilitation management and had just returned from mandatory rehabilitation in early 7.

The scene of the accident at Nga Tu So at noon on 17/12. Photo: Viet An

Effective 1/7, the amended penal code will include the offense of illegal drug use. Accordingly, individuals illegally using drugs under one of the four following circumstances will face imprisonment from two to three years:

- While undergoing drug rehabilitation or treatment for drug addiction with substitute medications, as stipulated by the law on drug prevention and control.

- While under post-rehabilitation management, as stipulated by the law on drug prevention and control.

- Within two years from the end of post-rehabilitation management and during the period of managing illegal drug users, as stipulated by the law on drug prevention and control.

- Within two years from voluntarily discontinuing drug rehabilitation or treatment for drug addiction with substitute medications, as stipulated by the law on drug prevention and control.

Repeat offenders of this crime will face imprisonment from three to five years.