Animal Welfare Malta has confiscated six unregistered monkeys in a joint operation with the Malta Police Force and the Environment and Resources Authority (ERA), Parliamentary Secretary for Animal Welfare Alicia Bugeja Said said.

In a Facebook post on Tuesday, Bugeja Said said the monkeys were confiscated despite owners having been given an opportunity to register them during an amnesty period.

She said a chance had been provided to regularise the situation, but action was being taken where this had not been done.

"The law exists to be respected," Bugeja Said said.

She said enforcement of animal welfare laws remained a priority, both out of respect for animals and for public safety.

Bugeja Said thanked Animal Welfare Malta, the Malta Police Force and ERA for their involvement in the joint operation, as well as other individuals who assisted.