30 held in animal rights raids

Thirty people were arrested on suspicion of animal rights extremism today following a series of early morning raids across the UK and Europe.

More than 300 police officers took part in the operation targeting 30 addresses across the UK, Belgium and the Netherlands.

A Hampshire Police spokeswoman said the arrested suspects were taken to police stations across the country for questioning.

Warrants were issued to enter and search premises in Hampshire, Berkshire, Surrey, Sussex, Kent, Greater London, Merseyside, Worcestershire, Lancashire, Northumbria, Yorkshire, Belgium and the Netherlands, the spokeswoman said.

She said: "The warrants have been obtained as part of an ongoing investigation into criminal activity associated with animal rights extremism.

"This is a substantial police operation led by forces from the south east region and supported by a number of other UK and EU police forces and European law enforcement agencies.

"The people arrested are all suspected of being involved in criminal activity associated with animal rights extremism.

"All have been taken to undisclosed police stations across the country and will be interviewed throughout the day."

The spokeswoman said the raids were part of a regional police operation led by forces in the south east of England supported by other UK forces and European law enforcement agencies.

She added: "Searches at the premises continue and officers are working with the local communities to minimise any disruption."

Freshfields Animal Rescue Centre in Merseyside was among the places raided.

The centre, which has been established for more than 25 years, takes in unwanted animals from across the region.

Police closed off East Lane in Ince Blundell, near Formby, where the animal sanctuary is located.

A spokeswoman for Merseyside Police confirmed they were assisting with a national police operation but said she was unable to provide further details.