Nguyen Huu Cuong, 58, residing in Hamlet 7, Thach Ha commune, was prosecuted and temporarily detained by Ha Tinh provincial police on 28/5. He faces charges of violating food safety regulations under Article 317 of the Penal Code.

Suspect Cuong (far right) at the investigative agency. Photo: Police provided

According to the investigation, in early 2026, Cuong exploited local disease outbreaks to purchase sick pigs at low prices. He then slaughtered and froze the meat, selling it to vendors in communal markets across Thach Ha, Can Loc, Viet Xuyen (formerly part of Thach Ha district), and surrounding areas for illegal profit.

On 11/5, authorities intercepted a man from Dong Tien commune transporting diseased pigs to Cuong. Following a period of surveillance, police raided Cuong’s residence, catching him slaughtering livestock. They seized one live pig and approximately 500 kg of slaughtered meat, bones, and offal stored in a freezer.

Laboratory tests confirmed that all seized pigs and pork products were positive for the African swine fever virus.

Authorities confiscate evidence at Cuong’s home. Photo: Police provided

Authorities stated that the suspect’s actions posed a significant public health risk. They advised residents to consume only food with clear origins and complete quarantine certifications, and to avoid unsafe pork products.

African swine fever has had a complex history in Ha Tinh province. By early 4/2025, outbreaks had affected nine communes, with active cases reported within 21 days, leading to over 1,000 pigs falling ill, dying, or being culled. The disease primarily spread among small-scale farms, fueled by the virus's persistent presence in the environment and a high risk of transmission. Local authorities implemented extensive measures, including zoning, disinfection, and stricter controls on transport and slaughter, to curb its spread.

Duc Hung