Dead roosters discovered by gardaí investigating suspected 'cock fighting' event
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Some 15 dead roosters have been discovered in Co Monaghan by gardaí investigating a report of a suspected illegal "cock fighting" event that took place in the county.
The "suspected animal welfare incident" took place on Saturday morning at a private residence in Emyvale. After gardaí arrived on the scene, "a large number of people fled".
Gardaí said: "The assistance of the Department of Agriculture was then sought and a warrant to search the residence under Section 45 of Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013 was obtained.
"During the course of a search, 15 dead roosters were discovered on the property, while a further 70 roosters were seized by a number of Department of Agriculture personnel in attendance.
"Evidence of suspected cock fighting was also seized."
An investigation is continuing at Monaghan Garda Station and gardaí continue to liaise with the Department of Agriculture regarding this matter.
Anyone with any information that can assist gardaí with this investigation is asked to contact Monaghan Garda Station on 047 77200, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.