Police in Phu Tho's Quang Yen Commune said the man had been keeping a leopard cat, scientifically known as Prionailurus bengalensis, a mammal listed in Group IIB of endangered, precious and rare animals.
During the inspection, he was unable to provide documents proving the lawful origin of the animal.
After confiscation, the leopard cat was handed over to the Hanoi Wildlife Rescue Centre for care and rehabilitation.
Police in Quang Yen Commune hand over the rare wild cat to the Hanoi Wildlife Rescue Centre for care and rescue (Photo: N.T.G).
Police said the illegal captivity of wild animals not only violates the law but also harms biodiversity conservation efforts and poses risks to public safety and disease transmission.
Authorities urged residents to comply with wildlife protection laws and avoid hunting, keeping, transporting or trading wild animals illegally in any form.
They also called on the public to promptly report violations to relevant agencies for inspection and enforcement.