Claims kitten seller still at it

A GEELONG man under investigation for allegedly illegally breeding and selling sick kittens online appears to be continuing the activity by setting up new web accounts.

Alleged victims have claimed to the Geelong Advertiser new Gumtree accounts have been created in the past fortnight using images previously posted before the East Geelong property of Con Petropolous was raided by the police and RSPCA officers.

Gumtree has not responded to requests for comment over the case and the sale of animals on its site.

Major Investigation team leader for the RSPCA, Lisa Calleja, said recent visits to the Kilgour St home found the welfare of the animals there was “improving”, but the probe into the allegations of animal mistreatment is continuing.

“RSPCA Victoria attended a property in Geelong on November 29, along with Geelong City Council and Victoria Police, as part of an ongoing investigation,” Ms Calleja said.

“There were 32 animals that were assessed on the property, including four dogs, two cats, and 26 kittens.

“RSPCA Victoria returned to the property the following week and is satisfied that the welfare of the animals is improving.”

It’s believed the operation spans six separate properties across the state and involves hundreds of kittens.

Buyers have claimed they were sold kittens that were just five weeks old and some of the animals later died from health issues.