Police Rescued 400 Cats in Vietnam Being Transported for Slaughter for Food
A network of thieves stealing furry pets was uncovered in the country.
More than 400 cats, likely being prepared for slaughter, were rescued in Vietnam. This occurred after authorities dismantled an alleged network of cat kidnappers, an animal welfare organization reported, writes the BBC.
Nine people were arrested — police stated that the «criminal group specialized in stealing and collecting cats,» AFP reported, citing the official publication of Ho Chi Minh City police.
During raids last week in Tay Ninh province and Ho Chi Minh City, law enforcement officers confiscated over 400 live cats and about 80 dead animals preserved in ice. Another 21 cats were confiscated at a different location.
The consumption of dog and cat meat in Vietnam is legal, but vendors must have permits certifying the origin of the animals.
Police reported that they tracked down the group on June 11 after investigating a wave of pet thefts in Ho Chi Minh City, according to local media.
The suspects confessed that they had been catching cats throughout southern Vietnam for the past three years, police reported. According to the investigation, they transported the stolen cats to temporary locations, after which they sold them to traders. Transactions occurred every two to three days.
About 40 stolen cats have already returned to their owners, Humane World for Animals reported on Tuesday.
The organization praised local authorities for their «decisive actions that saved the lives of many animals» but noted that some animals later died due to the stress they endured. It also added that it is providing food and other necessary supplies for the animals still being held by the police as evidence while the case proceeds.
Police reported that the investigation is ongoing and urged residents who believe their cats were stolen to come forward for assistance in identifying the recovered animals.
According to estimates by Humane World for Animals, approximately five million dogs and one million cats are caught, stolen, transported, and slaughtered for meat annually in Vietnam.
The organization notes that pets are often stolen directly from yards and homes: dogs are frequently taken using poisoned bait, electric shockers, and iron tongs, while cats are taken with spring traps.
Although the consumption of dog and cat meat remains more prevalent in Vietnam than in some other Asian countries, activists claim that public attitudes are gradually changing.
A 2023 survey commissioned by Humane World for Animals showed growing public opposition to this practice, especially among youth and pet owners. Most respondents support a ban on both dog and cat meat trade.
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