Hundreds of cats stolen for food in Vietnam rescued by police, welfare group says

Major operation launched after spate of pet thefts in Ho Chi Minh City, according to local media Police in Vietnam have rescued more than 400 cats in a major bust of a cat meat crime ring in Ho Chi Minh City, according to animal welfare groups and local media reports. More than 40 cats were reunited with their owners after the multiday operation last week, but several dozen of those rescued have died due to the harsh conditions that they were found in, the groups said.

Nine people have been arrested after more than 400 cats destined for slaughter were rescued in Vietnam.

Animal welfare groups say the bust highlights the 'enormous scale' of the country's cat meat trade.