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Organised Crime Squad detectives, together with RSCPA NSW Inspectors, have dismantled an illegal cockfighting syndicate and seized 71 fighting cockerels, following a joint investigation into animal cruelty offences.

Earlier this year, detectives from the State Crime Command’s Organised Crime Squad, together with the NSW Crime Commission and RSPCA NSW, commenced inquiries following reports of animal cruelty offences in Sydney’s south-west.

Following extensive investigations, detectives executed a search warrant at a property at Camden Valley Way at Catherine Field, from 11am yesterday (Sunday 13 December 2020).

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.

During a search of the property, officers uncovered a designated cockfighting area and several large sheds used to house 71 fighting cockerels, as well as metal spikes, spurs and other cockfighting paraphernalia.

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.

Thirty-five men were detained at the property and spoken to by police.

Investigations by Organised Crime Squad detectives are continuing and charges relating to animal cruelty offences and proceeds of crime are expected to be laid.

A 35-year-old Heckenberg man was charged with contravene prohibition/restriction in AVO (domestic). He was refused bail to appear at Picton Local Court today (Monday 14 December 2020).

A 28-year-old Cabramatta man was charged with possess prohibited drug and knowingly produce false/misleading document. He is due to appear at Picton Local Court tomorrow (Tuesday 15 December 2020).

Investigators are working with the Department of ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Affairs regarding the visa status of a 56-year-old man.

Inquiries continue.

Anyone with information about animal cruelty offences is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or . Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.