Chinese pair beaten by local vigilantes after selling dogs for food

A pair of Chinese dog thieves were beaten by locals in Guilin, Guangxi, after drugging dogs, stealing them, and selling them to restaurants for food.

The two men were caught red-handed by a pet owner, who called his neighbours. A vigilante mob soon formed and beat the men, also destroying their car with bricks.

The men are allegedly linked to several dog-nappings in the area. They would drive around listening for dogs barking, then toss meat laced with sedatives into the garden. The duo would then return half an hour later, kill the sedated dog and sell its body to local restaurants and eateries. However, after successfully carrying out this plan three times in Sanjiang Village, they were spotted by the fourth's dog owner dragging his pet to the car.

The angry mob did not release the men even after police had arrived, demanding 5,205 yuan (US$836) compensation for the dead animals. The dispute was ended when the families of the dog-thieves turned up and agreed to pay the compensation.

Dog meat is thought to have medicinal properties and be able to keep the body warm in Chinese culture, making it especially popular in winter. Guangdong and Guangxi celebrate dog meat festivals every year.

[Image via Daily Mail]