Police Rip Up Cat‑Theft Ring, Recovers 400 Live Cats in Vietnam

Tue Jun 16 2026 22:53:10 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Authorities in Ho Chi Minh City busted a criminal cat‑theft network, rescuing over 400 animals and releasing dozens back to owners.

Vietnamese police dismantled a criminal cat‑theft ring, rescuing more than 400 live cats and 80 dead specimens kept on ice. Nine suspects were arrested after a series of pet thefts. About 40 stolen cats have been reunited with their owners, but some died during the ordeal. The crackdown follows growing public opposition to the dog and cat meat trade.

Police in Ho Chi Minh City have seized the operations of a criminal group that stole and trafficked cats for meat. The raid saved more than 400 live cats and 80 dead animals kept on ice.

Officials arrested nine people for running a "criminal group specialising in stealing and collecting cats". The suspects admitted to trapping and selling stolen cats every few days.

A total of 421 cats were recovered: 400 live and 80 preserved on ice. An additional 21 cats were seized at a separate facility.

While the consumption of cat meat is legal in Vietnam, vendors must hold permits that confirm the animals’ origins.

The group operated across southern Vietnam for three years, transporting stolen cats to holding facilities that then sold them to traders. Police traced the network after a series of pet thefts in the capital.

Approximately 40 stolen cats have been returned to their owners, though a few died during their captivity. Animal welfare organisations are supplying food and care to those still in police custody.

The state investigation continues, and authorities urge residents who think their pets were stolen to come forward to help identify recovered animals.

Every year, an estimated five million dogs and one million cats are seized, trafficked, or slaughtered for meat in Vietnam. Pet theft often involves poisoned bait, snares, and iron devices.

Public opinion is shifting. A 2023 survey by Humane World for Animals found that most younger people and pet owners support bans on both dog and cat meat trade.