Hanoi police roll out AI tools for public safety

Photo courtesy of Tuoi Tre

Hanoi police have introduced a smart police app, an artificial-intelligence drone surveillance trial and a Vietnamese-made wireless fire alarm system as the capital pushes more digital tools into public safety and daily services.

The three products were unveiled on September 2, marking the 81st anniversary of Vietnam's National Day. Police say the programme is intended to improve contact with residents, make early warnings more practical and give the city better information for security and traffic management.

Fire warnings and resident contact

Major General Nguyen Hong Ky said the department worked with the Fire and Rescue Academy to research, develop and manufacture wireless fire alarm equipment. Hanoi wants the production line to serve households, household businesses, production sites and construction projects.

Police say domestic production will give them greater control over technology, quality and supply while reducing costs. The system is designed to bring earlier fire warnings closer to households and businesses, rather than relying only on a later emergency response.

AI surveillance trial

The Hanoi Smart Police app lets residents submit reports, seek assistance, send emergency alerts and receive updates on traffic, security and public-order issues. Its designers say it is intended to reduce the time needed to find information or contact officers.

The drone-based system combines unmanned aircraft, cameras and AI to monitor urban order and traffic safety over large areas. During a first test from June 1 to August 30, it directly handled 131 cases and passed 1,873 more to police units for assessment and follow-up.

What it means for foreigners in Vietnam

For foreign residents, the changes could make it easier to report non-emergency concerns, find official safety information and receive local alerts. The technology is still being introduced, so services and response times may vary by area, but the direction is toward more digital access to police and public-safety support.

4 September 2026