TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — New Taipei City announced a crackdown on illegal animal breeding operations following a shocking animal abuse case uncovered in Banqiao District.
On Sunday, the New Taipei Animal Health and Inspection Office said it will begin inspecting and prosecuting illegal pet breeding operations, per UDN. Households with more than 10 registered pets will face inspections in the coming months, with unlicensed breeders and those violating animal cruelty laws subject to fines or legal action.
The announcement follows the arrest of a 67-year-old man surnamed Hsieh (謝) on Feb. 28 for allegedly killing seven cats and abandoning their bodies along Guanghua Road in Banqiao. Cleaning crews initially found five carcasses and reported the case to police.
According to a press release, investigators later discovered two more bodies in the area and arrested Hsieh within 33 hours of the initial report. During a search of his home, authorities found 16 adult cats and two kittens kept in cages in poor living conditions.
Hsieh admitted to running an unlicensed breeding operation but denied abusing the animals, claiming financial difficulties led him to abandon them. However, investigators said the remains of the seven cats suggested they had been killed violently.
Under Taiwan's Animal Protection Act, illegal pet breeding carries a fine of NT$100,000 (US$3,000) to NT$3 million (US$91,000). Additional fines apply for housing unvaccinated pets or performing unlicensed veterinary work. Acts of animal cruelty can result in prosecution and jail time.
The Secretary-General of the New Taipei Animal Health and Inspection Office He Tsong-hsun (何宗勳) said that there are currently 880 homes identified as breeders or potential breeders in the city. In the first phase, these households will each be inspected over the coming year, per UDN.
To curb illegal breeding, the city will also work with local borough chiefs to identify unlicensed operations and encourage public reporting.
