Police also recovered weapons and stolen machinery
By Victoria Munro

Police at the scene in Stewardstone Road (credit: Chingford Green MPS)

A number of dogs and puppies have been seized after police broke up a suspected dogfighting ring in Chingford.

Local cops, accompanied by animal charity RSPCA, executed a warrant at a unit on Sewardstone Road on 3rd February, arresting three men.

In addition to a number of dogs, believed to be banned breeds, police also seized a gun, combat knives and stolen construction machinery.

The dogs have been taken to police kennels and the men – aged 28, 30 and 35 – have been released under investigation.

PC Tom Landels of the local force said: “The machinery will be returned to the lawful owners and the dogs will undergo assessment while they are cared for at a police kennel facility.

“Dog fighting is brutal, fundamentally cruel and is an organised crime that operates secretly with no regard for animal welfare.

“Anyone with information concerning dangerous dogs or dog fighting should contact police or Crimestoppers without delay.”

There are banned dog breeds in the UK: the Pit Bull terrier, the Japanese Tosa, the Fila Brasileiro and the Dogo Argentino. It is against the law to sell, abandon, give away or breed from such dogs.

Owning a dog from a banned breed is only possible if you are given a certificate of exemption by a court, which requires the dog to be neutered, microchipped and on a lead and muzzled while in public.

If you know about dog fighting in your area call 101 or Tweet @MetCC. To remain 100% anonymous call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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