Theft of 2,700 Cats Leads Vietnam to Arrest 12 People - Sarmad

Vietnam’s Ministry of Public Security announced that police arrested 12 people accused of stealing 2,700 cats and selling them for consumption in Ho Chi Minh City.

A statement from the Vietnamese Public Security Ministry said, “The suspects, aged between 16 and 39, were arrested on suspicion of stealing cats for the purpose of selling them for food.”

The statement added that police found cat traps, cages, and fur-removal equipment with the men, and rescued dozens of cats during the raid.

Cat meat dishes are still served in some parts of Vietnam, particularly in rural areas, and are sometimes marketed under the name “little tiger.” Some consumers believe it has medicinal properties.

The statement said the arrests came after residents reported the nighttime disappearance of their pet cats.

The group primarily operated between 11 p.m. and 4 a.m. Police said the seized animals were gathered and quickly transported for sale.

Police returned 13 cats to their owners and reported that the remaining cats are receiving care from the “Half Paws” pet welfare organization, while authorities continue efforts to identify their owners.