Cat-stealing ring accused of taking 2,700 pets from homes to be slaughtered for food in Vietnam
Police in Vietnam say they have detained 12 men suspected of taking nearly 2,700 cats from residential areas and sending them to be slaughtered for food. The arrests were announced Monday.
According to police and state media, the men admitted involvement in stealing and trading the cats. They allegedly worked in small groups, using motorbikes to search neighborhoods late at night and in the early morning.
Police first uncovered the operation in July, when they seized 50 live cats, 55 traps, two weighing scales and two machines used to remove fur.
Eating dog and cat meat is legal in Vietnam, but sellers must have documents identifying where the animals came from. The case highlights concerns about theft and the treatment of animals within the trade.
Authorities in Ho Chi Minh City have also pursued other suspected cat-stealing networks this year. In a June operation, more than 400 cats were rescued; some later died, while at least 40 were returned to their owners.
Key points
- Twelve men face allegations over the theft and trafficking of nearly 2,700 cats.
- Police say the suspects searched residential neighborhoods at night using motorbikes.
- Vietnam permits cat meat sales, but vendors must document the animals’ origin.