Two arrests made in animal cruelty police swoops in Grimsby and Great Coates

POLICE and the RSPCA have raided homes in Grimsby and Great Coates and arrested two men on suspicion of animal cruelty.

The early-morning operation took place after photographs of dead foxes were discovered during an investigation.

The two men were arrested under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 on suspicion of animal cruelty.

Officers targeted a property in Broadway, Grimsby, at about 7am yesterday and removed items including an air rifle, a wild bird trap and a terrier-cross dog.

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It is understood that birds of prey, ferrets and dogs were being kept in the back garden, and there were seven security cameras installed on the exterior of the home.

The police detained a 52-year-old at the house, while another team simultaneously raided a property in Newbury Avenue, Great Coates.

There, a breed of bull dog was removed, along with other articles which could be used for illegal hunting, and it is understood that a pit which could be used for animal fighting was found. A 32-year-old was arrested.

Police also executed a third warrant in Laceby but no further action was taken.

Speaking outside the house in Broadway, Sgt Dave Jenkins, from Humberside Police, said: "We are being proactive in trying to reduce wildlife crime.

"This is the second operation we have carried out along these lines and the first was in Brigg on July 4."

RSPCA inspector Carroll Lamport added: "We found a wild bird trap that could be used to catch animals illegally.

"We seized a terrier due to the condition and scarring on it.

"We have also taken other items that could be used in connection with wildlife crime.

"The law allows for ways that dogs can be used for hunting animals. We have reason to believe that offences may have taken place."