KUNMING -- Law enforcement authorities from China, Laos, Myanmar and Thailand on Monday launched their 162nd joint patrol of the Mekong River to combat cross-border crime.

The operation began when three Chinese law enforcement vessels departed from the Jingha port in Southwest China's Yunnan province, marking the official start of the joint patrol. Lao and Myanmar patrol boats left the Muang Mo port in Laos and the Wan Pong port in Myanmar.

Once the vessels of all parties reach the designated waters of the Mekong River, they will form a joint formation to carry out patrol and law enforcement operations.

Prior to the operation, the relevant law enforcement departments of the four countries held a joint commanders' meeting, discussing and reaching a consensus on deepening law enforcement cooperation and maintaining the safety and stability of shipping, in light of the approaching Spring Festival and busy shipping period for the Mekong River.

A joint command post will be established for the operation. The joint formation will conduct land-water inspections, publicity campaigns and other actions in key waters of the Mekong River, cracking down on various illegal and criminal cross-border activities.

The law enforcement agencies of the four countries will hold an information-exchange meeting in Houayxay, Laos.

The Mekong River -- known as the Lancang River in China -- is a vital waterway for cross-border shipping. China, Laos, Myanmar and Thailand have been conducting joint patrols of the river since December 2011.