A total of 66 reports of stolen pets have been lodged with the police from the beginning of 2013 up to the end of May this year, Interior Minister Carmelo Abela stated in parliament tonight.

Answering a parliamentary question put by opposition MP Mario Galea, Mr Abela said that in 2013 there were 26 reports lodged, 31 in 2014 and 15 so far this year. Information he tabled in parliament showed that birds and dogs were the post popular target, but other animals including turtles, mountain goats, rabbits, snakes and other exotic creatures were also stolen.