More than 400 stolen cats were rescued in Vietnam, after the dismantling of a ring that intended them for meat consumption.
The police in Vietnam rescued more than 400 live cats and located another 80 dead cats, preserved in ice, following an operation against a ring that allegedly stole them for the purpose of selling them for human consumption. According to an animal welfare organization, several of the cats have already been returned to their owners.
Vietnam: Ring dismantled and nine arrests
Nine people were arrested last week as part of an investigation into a “criminal group specializing in the theft and collection of cats,” as reported by the police newspaper of the city of Ho Chi Minh.
Authorities launched the operation following a wave of pet thefts in the area. During the investigation, more than 400 live cats were recovered, while 80 dead cats that had been kept on ice.
The suspects reportedly confessed to trapping cats in various areas of southern Vietnam for approximately three years. So far, at least 40 animals have been reunited with their families.
Concern for the animals – Intervention by an animal welfare organization
The consumption of cats and dogs remains legal in Vietnam, with many restaurants offering these meats. However, vendors are required to have the necessary certificates of origin for the animals.
The organization Humane World for Animals welcomed the operation, calling it a “decisive action” that saved the lives of hundreds of animals. At the same time, it expressed concern for the cats that remain at the police station as evidence during the legal proceedings.
As stated by the organization’s spokesperson, Karanvir Kukreza, the top priority remains caring for the animals until the legal proceedings are completed and their return becomes possible.
To support the rescued animals, Humane World for Animals donated food and arranged for the delivery of fans so that the cats could better cope with the high temperatures.
