Understand
Twelve arrested in Vietnam for allegedly running cat trafficking ring
Overview
Ho Chi Minh City police have arrested twelve men who allegedly confessed to stealing and selling around 2,700 cats to be slaughtered for food. Authorities seized cat traps, motorbikes, and fur removal machines during the investigation. While consuming dog and cat meat is legal in Vietnam, vendors require permits showing the animals' origins, and recent surveys indicate growing public opposition to the trade.
Key points
- Twelve men were arrested in Ho Chi Minh City after allegedly confessing to stealing and selling approximately 2,700 cats.
- Suspects allegedly roamed residential areas at night on motorbikes, using fish bait and traps to steal pets for the meat trade.
- Police seized items including cat traps, fur removal machines, weighing scales, and motorbikes.
- Thirteen of the rescued cats have been successfully returned to their owners, while others are being cared for at the HavePaws animal welfare centre.
- An estimated one million cats are captured, stolen, trafficked, and slaughtered for meat in Vietnam annually.
- A 2023 survey by Humane World for Animals showed 71% support for a ban on the consumption and trade of cat meat.