Three men were arrested yesterday in a joint police and RSPCA operation targeting organised dog fighting in Bradford.

The RSPCA’s Special Operations Unit, backed up by uniformed inspectors and West Yorkshire Police, carried out a number of raids across the city.

One man was arrested for questioning on suspicion of possessing dog fighting paraphernalia, under the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

Another man was arrested on suspicion of possessing a pit bull-type dog, under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991.

A third man was held in connection with causing unnecessary suffering to two dogs, a pit bull-type and an Akita-type, under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, and for suspected possession of three pit bull-type dogs under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991.

A quantity of class A drugs was also confiscated from one of the properties.

Four addresses were searched in Bradford following information relating to alleged organised dog fighting.

RSPCA inspector Chris Heyworth, of the Society’s Special Operations Unit, said: “We are extremely pleased with the operation and would like to thank West Yorkshire Police for their help and co-operation throughout. “Dog fighting is cruel and callous and we shall continue to seek out those who feel that taking part in this barbaric activity is somehow acceptable.” Inspector Alan Rhees-Cooper, of West Yorkshire Police, said: “We have carried out these raids with the RSPCA because people in the area have raised concerns about dogs being kept at the properties, and about the circumstances in which they were being kept.

“I want to assure people that if they have worries that ‘dangerous’ dogs are being kept near them they should tell us and we will endeavour to take positive action. If people are concerned organised dog fights may be taking place, they should telephone the RSPCA immediately.”

The RSPCA’s national cruelty and advice line is 0300 123 4999. All calls will be treated in confidence.