Rescue Operation Saves Hundreds of Stolen Cats in Vietnam

WHO:

BBC - Nine suspects were arrested in connection with the cat thefts.

WHAT:

BBC - More than 400 cats were rescued from being slaughtered.

BBC - Over 40 cats were reunited with their owners.

WHERE:

BBC - The incidents occurred across southern Vietnam.

WHEN:

BBC - The suspects admitted to trapping and collecting cats over the past three years.

WHY:

BBC - The suspects allegedly transported stolen cats to holding facilities before selling them to traders.

HOW:

BBC - Transactions involving the stolen cats took place every two to three days.

(UPDATED June 17, 2026 08:51 UTC)

Nine suspects have been arrested in connection with a disturbing cat theft operation in southern Vietnam, where more than 400 cats were rescued from potential slaughter. Authorities report that over 40 of these cats have been successfully reunited with their owners, while the suspects admitted to trapping and collecting cats over the past three years. Allegedly, the stolen cats were transported to holding facilities and sold to traders, with transactions occurring every two to three days.