The article discusses a police crackdown on establishments in Bui Vien Street, a bustling backpacker area in Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), Vietnam, which were found to be in violation of the night curfew rules. Here’s a summary of the main points:
- Police Crackdown on Bui Vien Street:
- Nine establishments, including bars and restaurants, were found violating the night curfew.
- Two restaurants were caught illegally organizing art performances without the required permission.
- Three dancers from these restaurants were detained for further investigation.
- All the businesses in violation were fined.
- Current Regulations:
- Karaoke parlors are permitted to operate from 8 a.m. to midnight.
- Bars and dance clubs can remain open until 2 a.m.
- Penalties for violating these timings include:
- Dance clubs operating post 2 a.m. can be fined up to VND20 million ($868).
- Karaoke parlors remaining open past midnight can incur a fine of up to VND15 million.
- Bui Vien Walking Street:
- Measures 1,400 meters in length.
- Surrounded by numerous bars, discotheques, dance clubs, and restaurants.
- Recognized as one of Vietnam’s busiest nighttime business hubs.
- Safety Measures:
- Recently, police have been inspecting establishments on Bui Vien Street, aiming to ensure safety and security, especially for foreign tourists.
- Last April, the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Public Security conducted raids on various pubs and bars on the same street. They discovered nitrous oxide canisters (commonly known as laughing gas) and shisha without appropriate invoices.
- Night-Time Economy in Vietnam:
- The Vietnamese government has been researching different models for a nighttime economy to boost tourism and consumer spending.
- However, security concerns have been a significant factor hindering these efforts.
The police action on Bui Vien Street reflects the Vietnamese government’s efforts to balance the growth of its nighttime economy with the need for safety and adherence to established regulations.
