Hundreds of cats stolen for food in Vietnam rescued by police
Key takeaways
- Nine people have been arrested in connection with what police described as a "criminal group specialising in stealing and collecting cats", according to the official newspaper of Ho Chi Minh City police.
- Officers recovered more than 400 live cats and around 80 dead animals preserved on ice during raids on sites in Tay Ninh Province and Ho Chi Minh City last week.
- The consumption of dog and cat meat is legal in Vietnam, but vendors require permits that show the origin of animals.
Why this matters: a developing story that could shape the day's news cycle.
Jessica Rawnsley Phuong Pham / Humane World for Animals Viet Nam More than 40 of the stolen cats have been reunited with their owners More than 400 cats destined for slaughter have been rescued in Vietnam after authorities dismantled an alleged feline theft ring, an animal welfare group has said.
Nine people have been arrested in connection with what police described as a "criminal group specialising in stealing and collecting cats", according to the official newspaper of Ho Chi Minh City police.
Officers recovered more than 400 live cats and around 80 dead animals preserved on ice during raids on sites in Tay Ninh Province and Ho Chi Minh City last week. A further 21 cats were seized at a separate facility.