On 28/1, Dong Nai police detained Phuong, a resident of Thong Nhat commune, to investigate violations of food safety regulations.

Police carried out the arrest during a heightened campaign to combat crime and ensure food safety ahead of the Binh Ngo Lunar New Year 2026.

Phuong at the time of her arrest, processing meat infected with african swine fever virus. Photo: Thai Ha

According to the investigation, in 2024, Phuong purchased approximately 12,000 kg of pigs that had died from african swine fever in Dinh Quan and the former Thong Nhat districts. She bought these pigs at prices ranging from 10,000 to 25,000 VND per kg.

Phuong transported the pigs to her home in Thong Nhat commune, where she butchered and sorted them into cuts like pork belly and lean meat. She then resold the meat at prices ranging from 70,000 to 85,000 VND per kg to numerous customers in Dong Nai and the former Ba Ria - Vung Tau provinces.

Due to the large quantities of meat she handled, Phuong acquired additional freezers, ice chests, and refrigerated containers to store the infected pork. Police discovered and apprehended her as she prepared to sell the meat on the market.

Testing results from the Regional Veterinary Sub-Department VI confirmed that the meat samples tested positive for african swine fever virus. This disease falls under the category of terrestrial animal diseases requiring official declaration.

Phuoc Tuan