Nine arrested in raids on suspected illegal coursing

Gardaí yesterday arrested nine people as part of a crackdown on illegal coursing in Co Tipperary.

The National Parks and Wildlife Service and gardaí mounted what was described as a “large scale operation” into illegal coursing at a number of locations.

The nine people arrested were last night being detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act for offences under the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013.

They were being held at Cahir, Thurles, Tipperary, Templemore, and Clonmel garda stations.

A garda spokesman said a number of “lurcher” breed dogs were seized along with equipment which is used in during the illegal activity.

“This operation targeted persons who illegally trespass on lands with Lurcher dogs and engage in offences contrary the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013,” the spokesman said. “It carries a penalty of up to five years’ imprisonment on indictment.”

Gardaí appealed to anyone with information about the illegal coursing “or any other crime” to contact Thurles Garda Station on 0504 25100, their local garda station, or the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666111.

Coursing is managed and regulated by the Irish Coursing Club. ICC says coursing operates in a highly regulated environment coupled with comprehensive rules directly applied by the ICC.