Law-enforcement authorities from China, Laos, Myanmar and Thailand joined forces on Tuesday to begin the 128th Mekong River joint patrol.

Seven vessels participating in the operation departed from three ports in China, Laos, and Myanmar.

The patrol, which is expected to last four days and three nights, will focus on tackling cross-border crimes to ensure safety and stability along the river.

The Mekong River -- known as the Lancang River in China -- is a vital waterway for cross-border shipping. The four countries have been conducting joint patrols on the river since December 2011.

In 2022, law enforcement authorities from the four countries carried out 12 joint patrols, sending out more than 200 ships and 2,700 law-enforcement personnel.

(Cover: Boat on the Mekong river, in northern Laos' Luang Prabang province, December 12, 2019. /CFP)