Six pups rescued in raids on illegal traders
FOUR PEOPLE ARRESTED IN SWOOPS ON SUSPECTED FARMS
FOUR people have been arrested and six puppies removed after raids on two suspected puppy farms.
Officers searched two properties in the Consett area in the early hours of Friday, with two men and two women arrested.
The raids, which were carried out by Durham County Council’s consumer protection and health protection teams and supported by Durham Constabulary, were part of a major investigation into fraudulent puppy trading.
They follow complaints from the public relating to the sale of puppies which were allegedly inaccurately described.
Some people had also reported allegations they purchased puppies suffering from health issues.
Protection manager Owen Cleugh said: “Friday morning’s operation was the culmination of very detailed planning and team work between ourselves and our colleagues at Durham Constabulary and we are grateful for their support.
“While our enquiries continue we have removed six puppies from two premises in relation to the fraud investigation and are also looking into potential welfare concerns.
“The puppies are now undergoing health checks and will be looked after at an undisclosed location.” Mr Cleugh said officers are pursuing a number of lines of enquiry and other people may yet emerge as suspects in this investigation. Inspector Keith Wardle, of Durham Constabulary, said: “The illegal puppy trade makes a lot of money for some people, but it also leads to animal suffering and it cheats families. “Anyone planning to buy a puppy should try to do so using a reputable dealer.” Officers expected more people who have purchased puppies to make contact a following the raids. They are asked to call the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 03454 04 05 06.