VietNamNet Bridge – Prostitution services and aphrodisiacs, which are banned in Vietnam, are advertised on many Facebook pages and websites, with pictures and cellphone numbers of women and drug traders.

Photo for illustration.

The Facebook page "prostitute" was launched in 2012 and currently has more than 12,000 members. The page avatar is a sexy girl, with the alluring invitation: "Get to know me, guys. I hope to be taught by you. I'd like to share with you, guys - Nguyen Thuy Linh, student, VND300,000 ($15) a night” and the girl’s cellphone number.

Most of the members are young men, who use Facebook nicknames. On this Facebook page, prostitutes are free to show off their bodies and the pimps and playboys bargain and exchange information about prostitution services. There are many similar websites, which advertise both male and female prostitutes and aphrodisiacs.

Dodging the law

The law prohibits prostituting oneself, organizing prostitution, providing prostitution services and other acts related to prostitution as prescribed by law. However, such acts can only be considered a violation when the prostitution transactions are completed and the prostitutes and the pimps and playboys are caught in the act.

On websites, prostitution acts are regarded as no-cost "advertising". All transactions are public but it is difficult for the authorities to monitor and handle.

A prostitute nicknamed Cave VIP views her personal page as her own market and she does not hesitate to write: "Do not need to be on the streets to seek customer anymore. If you want, just call or text me".

CA TPHCM