Vietnamese police arrest nine people and rescue more than 400 live cats believed to be destined for slaughter, according to multiple reports citing police and an animal welfare group. The operation dismantles a theft and distribution network described as specializing in stealing and collecting cats. After the raid, more than 40 cats are reunited with their owners, with dozens of pet owners reportedly finding their animals after the confiscations. Reports also say some cats did not survive the ordeal: Euronews and other outlets refer to later deaths of about 100 of the rescued animals. Additional details vary by source, but several accounts mention authorities seizing further cats from other locations and preserving some deceased animals on ice. One report adds that authorities seized 80 dead cats preserved and recovered another 21 cats from a separate facility, while an animal rights organisation provides figures on owner reunifications. All sources describe the case as a police crackdown connected to the alleged illegal trade of stolen cats for food.