WATCH: Shock and awe approach from Kilkenny gardaí as drugs and dogs seized
Gardaí involved in seizure of animals and drugs in major Kilkenny crackdown on animal cruelty as social media outrage grows - assisted by My Lovely Horse Rescue, Greyhound Racing Ireland, ISPCA, Kilkenny Dog Warden, Kilkenny County Council and garda members from the Community Engagement Unit and Crime Hubs
There has been a huge reaction to a recent multi-agency operation led by gardaí in Kilkenny that involved My Lovely Horse Rescue, who have brought huge attention to it on social media.
This collaborative operation, the second-of-its-kind following an operation earlier this month, focused on tackling animal cruelty, ensuring compliance with animal welfare legislation, and promoting responsible pet ownership across the county.
According to a statement released by My Lovely Horse Rescue, "all animals [that were seized] are now safe."
The statement continued: "They have received veterinary treatment and are being given the care, compassion and love they deserve."
Details of the operation received a huge response on social media, with one user commenting: "Just heartbreaking. When will it stop? Poor pets. Some only babies."
Another commented: "Tremendous work by all involved in Kilkenny. Surely this is the way to go, if only the Government would genuinely and sincerely commit to forming a proper animal welfare committee with people from the appropriate agencies governing it."
Gardaí have since confirmed that an estimated €3,000 of suspected heroin and €7,000 of suspected cocaine was located in the search - which they believe is likely to have been used for future sale and supply.
In total, garda sources state that "15 dogs were rescued" and "a number of horses were also examined by welfare officers."
Adding to that, "15 vehicles were tested by Revenue for marked diesel, and four of these vehicles were positive for same.
"Fines will issue from revenue in respect of these vehicles.
"An Ifor Williams trailer was also seized on suspicion of being stolen property. Enquiries are ongoing to identify an owner."
The statement from My Lovely Horse Rescue concluded by stating: "By working together, we strengthen enforcement, improve animal protection standards, and support responsible ownership throughout Kilkenny.
"Partnerships like these are vital in ensuring legislation is applied fairly and effectively while keeping animal welfare at the forefront.
"A huge thank you to all partners for their professionalism, dedication and ongoing commitment to protecting animals in our community.
"If you would like to support the continued rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming of these beautiful animals that deserve a chance, please consider donating."
Meanwhile gardaí have also confirmed that they have received numerous reports of anti-social behaviour in the vicinity of St Kieran's Cemetery on the Hebron Road.
Gardaí have increased their patrols in the area in response to complaints from members of the public.
Anyone with information can contact Kilkenny gardaí on (056) 777 5000.