Police in Vietnam have dismantled a criminal gang that stole more than 400 cats for the meat trade, rescuing many of them unharmed, an animal‑welfare group confirmed. The gang, a "criminal group specialising in stealing and collecting cats", operated across southern Vietnam for three years, transporting stolen cats to holding facilities before selling them to traders every two to three days.
Authorities raided sites in Tay Ninh Province and Ho Chi Minh City last week, recovering more than 400 live cats and about 80 dead animals preserved on ice, plus an additional 21 cats seized at a separate facility. Nine people have been arrested in connection with the ring.
The consumption of dog and cat meat is legal in Vietnam, but vendors require permits that show the origin of animals. Despite the legal framework, estimates put the annual capture of about five million dogs and one million cats for meat at the country’s slaughterhouses.
Humane World for Animals said that around 40 stolen cats have since been reunited with their owners and praised local authorities for their decisive action. However, the organisation noted that a number of the rescued animals had later died as a result of their ordeal and is currently providing food and supplies for the animals still held by police as evidence.
Police have urged residents who suspect their pets have been stolen to come forward to help identify recovered animals. The investigation is ongoing, and the animal‑welfare group has pledged to continue supporting the rescued cats while the case proceeds.
Campaigners say attitudes toward the consumption of dog and cat meat are shifting, with a 2023 survey commissioned by Humane World for Animals finding growing public opposition, especially among younger people and pet owners, who largely support bans on both trades.
