Thirty one dogs, including puppies, have been rescued by police investigating suspected fraud in Coalisland.
Two men aged 43 and 42 years old were arrested on suspicion of fraud by false representation. Both men have subsequently been bailed pending further enquiries.
The arrests follow an operation in the Coalisland area yesterday (Thursday 5 December).
Inspector Joanne Gibson said local officers, assisted by partner agencies conducted searches at five properties in the area. The searches were in relation to suspected fraud offences related to the sale of puppies in Mid Ulster.
All of the dogs have been seized by PSNI.
“This joint operation involving our partner agencies has resulted in disrupting this activity and ensuring that further people do not fall victim to buying puppies in these circumstances. I would like to thank both the public and our partner agencies for their assistance during the operation,” she said.
Inspector Joanne Gibson said buying puppies from illegal breeders can have devastating results.
“Often these puppies die a short time after purchase or end up with infectious diseases such as parvovirus which is expensive to treat and often fatal. They can also suffer behavioural issues relating to fear and anxiety due to poor or no socialisation. It can be tempting to buy a puppy in these circumstances and often purchasers recognise things are not quite right. It is normal to want to ‘rescue’ a puppy in these circumstances but people must remember they are fuelling and supporting what is a particularly lucrative criminal industry,” she added.
Police enquiries are continuing and they are appealing to anyone who may have purchased a puppy from the Mid-Ulster area over the last six months, to contact police on 101 quoting reference number 915 05/12/19.
“If any of these animals have tragically passed away, we would ask owners to contact police to assist with our ongoing investigation,” said Inspector Joanne Gibson.
And she is asking people to be vigilant of any suspicious activity involving the sale of puppies.
“If you believe you have knowledge of an illegal breeding establishment in operation then please contact your local Council Dog Warden – for Mid Ulster District Council please ring 03000 132 132 and to report a welfare concern please contact 028 8225 6226 to speak to an Animal Welfare Officer,” she added.
