Vietnamese police in Ho Chi Minh City have dismantled a cat meat trafficking network and animal theft ring following a major multiday operation. Nine people were arrested during the crackdown, which was launched after a spate of pet thefts in the city.
During the operation, police seized more than 400 cats, with some reports indicating the number exceeded 500, all of which were destined for slaughter. While dozens of these animals, including more than 40, were reunited with their families, many others did not survive. Around 100 of the rescued cats died due to the harsh conditions in which they were found.
Animal welfare groups stated that the bust highlights the enormous scale of the country's cat meat trade.