Horror as bodies of 37 dogs found in major police raid on ‘rescue centre’ with two men arrested

TWO MEN have been arrested after the bodies of 37 dogs were discovered when police raided a controversial animal rescue centre.

Essex Police officers uncovered the dead animals, alongside 20 living ones, in a joint raid with the RSPCA and Basildon Borough Council on Tuesday in Billericay, Essex.

Hayley Lucas had her dog homed at the centre but no longer believes he is alive

The crews were responding to a number of reports in relation to an address in the town.

Two men have now been arrested on suspicion of fraud and failing to prevent unnecessary suffering to animals.

A spokesperson for the force said: “Essex Police officers working alongside colleagues from the RSPCA and Basildon Borough Council in response to a number of reports in relation to an address in Billericay have uncovered the remains of 37 dogs and seized a number of others to ensure they are safe.

“The partners carried out a joint visit to the property, in the Crays Hill area, yesterday, Tuesday 13 May.

“Two men have been arrested on suspicion of fraud and failing to prevent unnecessary suffering to animals. They remain in custody.

“As part of the response, a police presence continued in the area overnight.

“All three organisations are aware of – and entirely understand – discussion of this investigation on a number of social media platforms.

“At this stage, we would urge the public to please refrain from speculation whilst our enquiries progress.”;;

More to follow... For the latest news on this story keep checking back at The Sun Online

is your go-to destination for the best celebrity news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures and must-see video.

Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thesun and follow us from our main Twitter account at @TheSun .

Police discovered the 37 dead animals after raiding the rescue centre