Suffolk Police appeal for owners of almost 50 stolen dogs found in Ipswich to come forward

They were among over 80 discovered in the town in March

Author: Arlen JamesPublished 19th Apr 2021
Last updated 19th Apr 2021

Suffolk Police is urging the owners of almost 50 stolen dogs found in Ipswich to come forward.

Officers are continuing to investigate the discovery of 83 dogs at West Meadows on 20 March, but are yet to find any of their owners.

Today (19 April) the force has released images of 48 in the hope of reuniting them.

Anyone who believes any of the animals could be theirs is asked to email the investigation team on opscout@suffolk.pnn.police.uk by 24 May:

Detective Chief Inspector Nicola Wallace, Senior Investigating Officer, said: "We are keen to hear from anyone who believes any of the dogs in the images may be theirs. During the last few weeks officers have been liaising with other police forces around the country, as well as conducting a number of other enquiries, in order to establish where the dogs may have originated from."

People contacting the force will need to provide their full name, contact details, the image number(s) and proof of ownership, which can include:

  • Veterinary/vaccination records clearly identifying the dogs
  • Pictures of the dog with distinctive markings
  • Microchipping details - Suffolk Police says all animals either do not have microchips or have chips which may not be correctly registered
  • Other pictures of the animals proving ownership during its life
  • Purchase details
  • Records of the dogs being reported lost or stolen

Six people were arrested in connection with the operation in March.

Two men aged 34 and 39 and two women aged 41 and 46 were arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to steal and remain on bail until 17 June.

Another 34-year-old man and a 35-year-old woman, who were arrested on suspicion of the same offence, have been released without further action.

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