Vietnamese Police Break Major Cat Meat Crime Ring, Rescuing Over 500 Cats

The operation last week resulted in the recovery of over 400 live cats and approximately 80 deceased cats found in ice-filled containers. Following the rescue, more than 40 of the animals were reunited with their owners, although several dozen did not survive due to the conditions they endured.

Karanvir Kukreja, who leads an international campaign against dog and cat meat consumption for the nonprofit Humane World for Animals, emphasized the operation as a stark reminder of Vietnam’s extensive cat meat trade. The investigation began after a series of pet thefts prompted police to track the crime ring, leading to the detention of nine individuals.

Authorities reported that the suspects had been trapping and collecting cats from Ho Chi Minh City and nearby areas, including Tay Ninh and An Giang, over the past three years. Phuong Pham, the country director of Humane World for Animals in Vietnam, highlighted the alarming nature of the trade, stating that thousands of cats are stolen, trafficked, and killed for meat each month. Some of the rescued cats were found to be pregnant, with kittens being born shortly after their rescue.

Chris Gindelhumer from the Vietnam Cat Welfare nonprofit noted the emotional nature of the rescue, sharing that many families came in search of their missing pets, while others were disappointed. Veterinarians and volunteers are now working tirelessly to care for the rescued animals.

Although the consumption of dog and cat meat is legal in Vietnam, vendors are required to have permits verifying the animals' origins. Cities like Hoi An are actively collaborating with global animal welfare groups to eliminate dog and cat meat consumption.

The recent bust has heightened awareness around the issue, with many, including An Pham, a master's student and cat lover, expressing surprise and a desire to end the cat meat trade.