Standing firm on outpost island
Located about 45 kilometers Northeast of Co To Lon Island and 25 kilometers south of Van Gia Port (Mong Cai), Tran Island is a crucial defense and security location. According to Lieutenant Colonel Hoang Cuong, Political Officer of Tran Island Border Post, locals often liken the island to the “Truong Sa (Spratly) of the Northeast” due to its strategic position guarding vital sea routes and affirming Vietnam’s maritime sovereignty.
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Officers and soldiers of Tran Island Border Post present national flags and portraits of Uncle Ho to fishermen. |
Despite harsh weather, the island is currently home to 12 households with 53 residents. With the support of authorities at all levels, local infrastructure and living standards are gradually improving. Tran Island Border Post plays a core role in managing border security, maintaining public order, and aiding economic development, operating under the motto “The island is home, the sea is the homeland.”
A pillar of support amidst the waves
Lieutenant Colonel Vu Van Luong, Commanding Officer of Tran Island Border Post, stated that the unit focuses on territorial control and maritime security while providing timely assistance to ensure fishermen can safely operate at sea.
The unit regularly educates fishermen on the law, safe fishing practices, and natural disaster prevention. Since early 2026, the post has registered 525 visitor arrivals, monitored 85 trawlers carrying 165 fishermen and 110 workers, and inspected 146 trawlers with 326 crew members for legal compliance. Additionally, they have guided 175 trawlers with 492 fishermen to safe typhoon shelters.
To fulfill their duties, the post coordinates closely with the Vietnam Coast Guard, Fisheries Surveillance, Navy Radar Station 480, Tran Island Battalion, and other local relevant forces. Together, they effectively promote the Fisheries Law and promptly combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing.
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An officer of Tran Island Border Post distributes leaflets to disseminate legal information to islanders. |
In early 2026 alone, border guards conducted IUU prevention outreach for 162 trawlers and 365 crew-members, urging 95 trawler owners to strictly comply with regulations. They disseminated information on law to 256 locals, presented 250 national flags and 50 life jackets, and provided free medical check-ups for 62 people. Furthermore, the unit distributed 45 gift packages worth VND 45 million and granted VND 21.5 million to three students under the “Paving the way to school for children - Border posts’ adopted children” program.
Vu Van Dinh, Secretary of the Party Cell and Head of Tran village, affirmed that border guards are a solid pillar for both islanders and thousands of visiting fishermen seeking shelter during bad weather. Through practical actions, they, along with local authorities and residents, are building Tran Island into a steadfast fortress in the nation’s Northeast frontier.
Source: Baobienphong
Translated by Minh Anh