Police issue arrest update after 'underground puppy trade' busted in raids

Four people who were arrested as part of a crackdown on the illegal sale of puppies across Greater Manchester have been released on bail, police have confirmed.

Officers burst into five homes in Rochdale and Manchester on Tuesday morning (October 15) as part of a joint investigation between Greater Manchester Police and the RSPCA. Police said the probe had uncovered an 'illicit underground trade' of the sale of puppies that had been imported from abroad.

The force said criminal gangs have been making 'eye-watering profits' from selling the dogs, which were often sick and died shortly after going to their new homes. The unsuspecting victims who bought the puppies were 'left traumatised'.

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During the crackdown earlier this week, 14 puppies were rescued. An XL bully was also seized.

Thee men - aged between 23 and 31 - were arrested, as well as a 43-year-old woman. All four suspects were arrested on suspicion of causing unnecessary suffering to an animal and fraud by false representation.

In an update issued today (Thursday), a GMP spokesperson said they have all since been bailed.

Previously, Sergeant Brendan Walsh, from GMP's Rochdale district, said: "This is organised crime, and those involved have been making eye watering profits from this harmful and illicit trade.

"This has been a tremendous joint effort between Greater Manchester Police and the RSPCA's Special Operations Unit. The properties have been searched, and police have rescued 14 puppies and seized an XL bully.

"Police also seized several mobile phones, important documents and bank statements, all consistent with an organised criminal operation involving the fraudulent and unlawful sale and breeding of puppies. We’ve had members of the public who have paid substantial amounts for these puppies, paid large veterinary fees, and have been left traumatised by their experiences.

"I hope today’s activity will highlight our commitment to tackling this type of crime, and I would urge anyone who feels they have been affected by this, please contact us so that we can act."

A spokesperson for the RSPCA said: "We'd urge anyone who wants to get a dog to consider adopting from a rescue charity, like the RSPCA. There are thousands of dogs across the country waiting to find their forever families.

"Anyone who is looking to buy a puppy should be cautious when choosing a breeder and use The Puppy Contract to help them find a happy, healthy dog. Anyone who is concerned about a seller should walk away and report their concerns to the police, Trading Standards or RSPCA."

Anyone concerned about illegal puppy sales should contact GMP using the online reporting method or by calling 101. Concerns can also be reported to the RSPCA.

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