Thirty-five men have been arrested in Sydney after NSW Police uncovered a massive alleged cockfighting syndicate.
Authorities teamed up with operatives from the state branch of the RSPCA earlier this year to investigate allegations of animal abuse happening in Sydney's south-west.
After conducting several inquiries, they executed a search warrant in Camden Valley Way at Catherine Field on the weekend and their fears were confirmed.
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Detectives went from shed to shed at the property and discovered 71 cockerels that were being used to fight, as well as metal spikes, spurs and other cockfighting paraphernalia.
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A statement from NSW Police said: "Detectives were assisted throughout the operation by RSPCA NSW Inspectors, Bass Hill Region Enforcement Squad (RES), South West Metropolitan Operations Support Group (OSG), the Dog Unit and PolAir.
"Officers also seized $107,170 cash and several electronic devices from the premises, which will undergo further examination.
"The animals were seized by RSCPA NSW Inspectors, several of which were taken into veterinary care for serious injuries."
Authorities arrested 35 men at the property and they've been interviewed by police.
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"Investigations by Organised Crime Squad detectives are continuing and charges relating to animal cruelty offences and proceeds of crime are expected to be laid," NSW Police added.
Two men were also charged with unrelated offences and the Home Office is looking into the visa status of another man.
Featured Image Credit: NSW PoliceTopics: Australia