Hai Phong City Police announced on 12/2 that they have initiated legal proceedings and temporarily detained Nguyen Van Huy, 33, residing in hamlet one, Ninh Giang commune, for illegally possessing toxic substances. Huy is accused of using cyanide-laced dried fish as bait to steal pets, an offense falling under clause two, article 311 of the Criminal Code.

Huy's apprehension occurred during a patrol in Vinh Xuyen hamlet in the late night of 22/12/2025 and early morning of 23/12/2025. Officers from Ninh Giang commune police, supported by local security forces, caught him in the act of stealing a cat.

Scene of the incident. Photo: Provided by police

An on-site inspection revealed Huy was carrying a plastic bag containing several pieces of dried fish, which he intended to use as bait to trap dogs and cats in the area. Forensic analysis by the Institute of Criminal Science (Ministry of Public Security) confirmed that all seized dried fish were laced with cyanide.

Authorities emphasized the extreme danger of cyanide, noting that even a small amount can be fatal to animals and poses a direct threat to human life if accidentally touched or ingested.

Police highlighted that employing cyanide for theft extends beyond simple property crime; it carries a substantial risk of causing widespread poisoning incidents within residential communities. The investigation into the case is ongoing.

Le Tan