Hundreds of cats stolen to be eaten in Vietnam rescued
What's the story
Vietnamese authorities have dismantled a cat theft ring and rescued over 400 stolen cats destined for slaughter. The operation was carried out by the police in Ho Chi Minh City and Tay Ninh Province. Nine people have been arrested in connection with this "criminal group specializing in stealing and collecting cats," according to the official newspaper of Ho Chi Minh City police.
Theft details
Suspects lured and trapped cats
The suspects confessed to luring and trapping cats across southern Vietnam for three years. They allegedly kept the stolen animals in cages until they had enough to sell, with transactions occurring every two to three days. The cats were then transported to a parking facility in Tay Ninh Province for further distribution. According to local media reports, police tracked down the group on June 11 after investigating a series of pet thefts in Ho Chi Minh City.
Owner reunions
100 cats died in ordeal
Humane World for Animals, an animal welfare group, said around 100 of the rescued cats later died due to their ordeal, while around 40 of the stolen cats have since been reunited with their owners. It said it was providing food and other supplies for animals still being held by police, which urged residents who believe their pets have been stolen to come forward to help identify recovered animals.
Trade controversy
Attitudes changing toward cat meat consumption
In Vietnam, the consumption of dog and cat meat is legal but requires vendors to have permits showing the origin of animals. The trade sees an estimated five million dogs and one million cats captured or stolen each year for meat. However, attitudes are changing with growing public opposition, especially among younger people and pet owners, campaigners say. A 2023 survey by Humane World for Animals found majorities supporting bans on both dog and cat meat trades.