A 35-year-old man has been arrested after police carried out a raid at a suspected XL Bully puppy farm. 

Officers attended a home in Colchester at about 10am on Friday.

During the warrant police seized 13 dogs from the property, eight of which were young puppies. 

The suspect, 35, was arrested on suspicion of possession and breeding of a banned breed and animal cruelty offences.

He has since been released under investigation. 

Following the raid sergeant Rob Temme said: "This warrant was a multi-agency response following intelligence around illegal dog breeding, the possession of unregistered XL Bully dogs and concerns around the conditions at the address. 

“We have worked closely with the RSPCA to ensure the welfare of these animals but also protect those living at the address, including children. 

“This warrant was a last resort following attempts from Essex Police and the RSPCA to engage with the owner and ensure their safety.  

“The dogs have now been safely removed from the property and put into kennels until their breed can be determined.”