On October 20, the Ho Chi Minh City Traffic Police Division said its Ban Co traffic police team had detected and penalized several ride-hailing drivers for serious drink-driving violations while they were working in the city center.

In one case, officers stopped a driver who had his ride-hailing app open and was waiting to accept passenger bookings. A breath test showed an alcohol concentration of 0.458 milligrams per liter of breath.

Another driver was found carrying a passenger despite having a breath alcohol concentration of 0.475 milligrams per liter.

Both readings exceeded 0.4 milligrams per liter, the threshold for the highest penalty bracket for motorbike riders under Vietnam's traffic regulations.

The drivers faced fines of VND8-10 million (approximately US$300-380) and suspension of their driving licenses for 22-24 months.

Traffic police warned that driving after consuming alcohol poses a serious risk of accidents, threatening the lives, health and property of passengers and other road users.

For professional drivers, such violations can also damage their reputation, jeopardize their livelihoods and undermine customer trust.

Police stressed that no ride or amount of income is worth risking personal or public safety.

To help prevent similar violations, the Traffic Police Division urged ride-hailing companies to strengthen communication and regularly remind drivers to comply with road traffic laws and safety regulations.

Companies were also encouraged to consider appropriate management and monitoring measures to identify and prevent drivers from working under the influence of alcohol.

Police called on all drivers to take personal responsibility and refrain from operating vehicles after drinking, regardless of how short the journey may be or whether they are waiting for bookings or already transporting passengers.

Dam De