MBR Acres - force statement

Two dogs recovered by our officers following a break-in at MBR Acres in, Wyton, Cambridgeshire, have been returned to the company.

We recognise the strong feelings this issue has raised in many people, however, we had no legal justification to retain the dogs and therefore were compelled to return them.

In response to concerns raised, we contacted the Home Office, which confirmed that MBR Acres is a licensed establishment and that recent inspections of the site confirm it is compliant with the requirements of the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 and, therefore, its licence.

The Home Office and its Animals in Science Regulation Unit (ASRU), which administers and enforces the 1986 Act, supported the return of the dogs for their wellbeing.

The dogs were recovered on Tuesday (20 December) following a reported burglary at the premises.

Fourteen people were arrested, interviewed in connection with burglary and aggravated trespass offences, and released on conditional bail until next year.

Eighteen further dogs were taken and have not been recovered.