The Vietnamese Communist Party newspaper, Nhan Dan, says the authorities in Vietnam's northern province of Nam Ha have been told to deal immediately with complaints of corruption against local officials.

However, Nhan Dan also warned officials to beware of what it described as extreme elements trying to exploit anger against corruption.

Earlier this month, villagers in the province filed complaints against local officials over the use of public funds and their role in land disputes.

Correspondents say serious unrest in various rural areas last year provoked by corruption unsettled Vietnam's communist leaders.