15 dogs, four of which had apparently been stolen from their owners, and 15 horses were found in reportedly squalid conditions during an operation carried out by the in Lands Authority in Bizbizija in which squatters, a father and son, on public property were evicted.

In a statement this evening, the Directorate of Animal Welfare explained that the operation had taken place at around 9am and that the operation had been coordinated by the Lands Department, which had requested the assistance of the Directorate.

A total of 15 dogs and 15 horses were found on the property, as well as a number of other animals including rabbits and turkeys.

Four of the dogs were found to have been microchipped and it was ascertained that belong to other people.  The owners were contacted and arrangements were made for the pets to be collected.  Three other dogs were also found to have been microchipped and it was established that they belonged to parties occupying the premises.  The remaining animals were not microchipped.

The Directorate said it is working with animal sanctuaries to find shelter for the dogs as quickly as possible.

The dogs were found to have been in a poor state of health and were taken to an animal hospital for further treatment and observation. All the horses were taken to the Mounted Police Section where they are being treated.

The animals were found to have been kept in filthy conditions.

During the operation the squatters reportedly pelted the officers with stones, and they suffered injuries including a fractured arm and a bitten hand.

The pair has been repeatedly asked to vacate the property along with their animals, but they had refused despite being offered an alternative site, according to reports.

The property was scheduled to be cleaned-up in preparation for a project on government-owned land. The property is planned to be turned into a retreat home.