Target: Nguyễn Văn Long, Deputy Minister of Public Security, Hanoi, Vietnam
Goal: Ensure every owner responsible for allegedly confining moon bears in cruel conditions for commercial exploitation is prosecuted and the remaining captive bears are permanently relocated to accredited sanctuaries.
Sixteen years is a lifetime for a bear. According to investigators, some moon bears have spent nearly that long imprisoned inside cages so small they could scarcely stand upright or move naturally, enduring years of physical and psychological suffering.
According to publicly reported information, Vietnam’s Forest Protection Department, working alongside the international conservation organization Animals Asia, launched a major enforcement investigation after inspectors documented approximately 150 moon bears confined across multiple commercial properties. Welfare officers say they found bears suffering from profound muscle atrophy after years of extreme confinement, while many displayed repetitive behaviors associated with severe psychological trauma.
Authorities have filed formal complaints seeking the closure of the facilities and the transfer of the remaining bears to national sanctuaries, where they can begin long-term rehabilitation. Prosecutors continue organizing veterinary, biological, and documentary evidence while conservation officials prepare the phased relocation of the animals to the expanded Tam Dao sanctuary. The investigation remains ongoing, and no court has determined criminal liability.
Keeping wild bears iimprisoned for years in conditions that prevent normal movement represents an appalling disregard for animal welfare. Wildlife should never be reduced to commercial assets at the expense of their health and dignity. Holding every individual who allegedly operated or profited from these facilities accountable would strengthen Vietnam’s efforts to combat wildlife exploitation and protect vulnerable species.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Deputy Minister Long,
The conditions uncovered during a recent investigation have deeply concerned wildlife advocates around the world. Authorities allegedly documented moon bears confined for years in restrictive cages, leaving many animals physically debilitated and psychologically traumatized.
Investigators continue gathering veterinary findings, biological evidence, and property records while preparing legal proceedings against those who may have operated these commercial facilities. These allegations remain subject to judicial determination and should be assessed through a comprehensive and impartial investigation.
Please ensure that, if the evidence ultimately supports the allegations, every person responsible is prosecuted to the fullest extent permitted under Vietnamese law and that the remaining captive bears are transferred without unnecessary delay to qualified sanctuaries. Wild animals deserve protection from alleged exploitation and lifelong confinement.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Shiv’s fotografia
