Vietnamese police arrested nine suspects and rescued over 400 cats from a trafficking ring destined for the meat trade, according to animal welfare organizations. More than 40 of the rescued animals have already been returned to their owners.
The operation targeted cat theft networks that supply restaurants and food vendors across Vietnam, where cat meat remains consumed despite growing public opposition. Animal welfare groups estimate thousands of cats are stolen from homes and streets annually and sold for slaughter.
Police conducted raids on multiple locations where the cats were being held in poor conditions before transport to slaughterhouses. The rescued animals are receiving medical treatment and care from local welfare organizations before permanent rehoming or reunification with their families.
This enforcement action reflects shifting attitudes in Vietnam toward animal welfare. Urban residents increasingly oppose the cat meat trade, with animal rights campaigns gaining traction in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Several restaurants have pledged to remove cat meat from menus under public pressure.
The arrested individuals face charges related to animal theft and trafficking. Investigators are pursuing leads on buyers and suppliers further up the supply chain. Authorities say more operations targeting animal trafficking networks are planned.
Animal welfare groups continue pushing for stricter legislation against the cat meat trade and pet theft. Vietnam has no comprehensive animal protection law, making enforcement difficult and sentences light. Recent years have seen growing international pressure on the government to regulate the trade more heavily, particularly from animal rights organizations in Europe and North America.