Pet theft and illegal meat rings in Ho Chi Minh City

Authorities in Ho Chi Minh City have dismantled large-scale criminal operations involving the theft and trafficking of pets for meat.

In early October, police arrested 12 men for allegedly operating a ring that stole approximately 2,700 cats from residential neighborhoods. The group, led by Luu Thanh Binh, reportedly used motorcycles and homemade traps to capture animals for resale. Authorities seized equipment including fur-removal machines and scales, while some rescued animals were transferred to welfare organizations.

Later in the month, police dismantled a professional interprovincial ring involving both dogs and cats. This investigation led to the detention of 11 suspects and the discovery of a slaughtering facility. Investigators estimate the group processed and distributed over 10 tons of meat across multiple provinces. The operation also identified and detained four major buyers in cities including Hanoi and Hai Phong, who allegedly participated in transactions exceeding 860 million VND despite knowing the meat was stolen.

Detailed findings from the interprovincial investigation revealed that the group, involving key suspect Nguyen Ba Long, used a car to transport stolen animals and equipment. During a raid on a residence enclosed by metal fencing to conceal a slaughtering area, police seized 21 dead dogs, 32 butchered dogs, and 57 butchered cats, as well as homemade electric-shock guns used to stun the animals. The distribution network extended to Hai Phong, Hung Yen, Ninh Binh, and Hanoi.