Pitbull ‘weapon dogs’ seized as police handlers swoop on gangs

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Snarling: officers restrain one of the dogs

Pitbull ‘weapon dogs’ seized as police handlers swoop on gangs

Justin Davenport, Crime Correspondent
09.07.09

Twenty pitbull-type “weapon dogs” were seized in police raids in south London today.

In one of the first operations of its kind officers swooped on the homes of known gang members and captured dogs which have been terrorising local communities.

All the animals seized in the raids in Kennington — including a litter of six puppies — are suspected of being banned pitbulls.

Specialist officers from the Met's newly-established Status Dogs unit were trying to identify the breed of the animals.

The aim of Operation Navara was to target “weapon dogs”, which are believed to be used for fighting or intimidation. In some cases police smashed down front doors as the animals barked loudly inside.

Wearing protective gear, padded sleeves and carrying fire extinguishers to deal with any aggression, specialist handlers dragged snarling dogs into cages using restraining poles.

The animals will be examined by the Met's Status Dog Unit before a court hearing to decide their fate.

Two adult dogs were seized along with six four-week-old puppies from a three-storey house in Renfrew Road, Kennington. Officers suspect the home was being used for breeding.

Puppies believed to be used for breeding

The majority of raids were based on intelligence about dangerous dogs being used by gang members — though some were responding to complaints from neighbours.

The raids came as figures revealed the scale of pitbull ownership in London. Sergeant Ian McPartland, who heads the Status Dog Unit, said his officers had seized 273 dogs since the squad was established three months ago, 240 of which were pitbulls.

He revealed that criminals in the capital were breeding Staffordshire terriers with Bull Mastiffs to recreate the original American Pitbull breed.

He said: “This is how pitbulls were first created 200 years ago and it is happening again in London today, though we are also coming across some brought in from Southern Ireland and Eastern Europe.

“We are looking for dogs involved in anti-social behaviour, crimes or used for protecting criminal assets.”

Four years ago the Met recovered 40 dangerous dogs from the streets. Last year it seized 719, of which 600 were pitbulls. Lambeth North Superintendent Clive Wakeley said: “Gangs carry knives and guns and keep pit bulls as a weapon and as a status symbol.”

“If you target them and take 20 out, it is undermining their position and undermining them in terms of having a weapon they can use.”

Kit Malthouse, the deputy mayor for policing, said: “Weapon dogs are not fluffy pets. Do not be fooled by the wagging tail. They are kept to intimidate and cause injury or death, no different from a knife or a gun.

“The rise in use of these unfortunate animals has caused fear and alarm in neighbourhoods across the capital. Many people, parents, elderly people and other dog owners will breathe a little easier this morning.”