Italian Authorities Seize 13 Pit Bull-Type Dogs in Underground Dogfighting Bust

ROME—Thirteen pit bull-type dogs, including four puppies and a pregnant female, were recently seized in Gela, Sicily, as part of an operation targeting an illegal dogfighting and underground betting ring. The operation was conducted by the Italian State Police, the CITES units of the Carabinieri in Rome and Palermo, and the Agrigento Nature Anti-Crime Unit.

Investigation Triggered by Missing Dog Report

The seizure began when local citizens alerted police to a man seen with a small dog reported missing. A search of the man’s home revealed a dog with injuries consistent with dogfighting, leading to the rescue of the remaining 13 dogs, who are now under the care of veterinarians from the Provincial Health Authority of Palermo.

‘Io non combatto’ Project Highlights Widespread Issue

Humane World for Animals Italy (formerly Humane Society International) and Fondazione Cave Canem, the organizations behind the “Io non combatto” project, emphasize that dogfighting remains widespread across Italy. They stress that public reports of suspicious activity are crucial in preventing and combating these crimes.

Signs of Dogfighting Activities

The groups have developed a Citizens’ Guide to help identify signs of dogfighting, including multiple dogs kept outside on chains, dogs with visible fighting wounds, and the presence of training equipment like treadmills. Items seized in the Sicily case included treadmills, chains, leashes, weights, and pharmaceutical products, including steroids.

Underground Ring Characteristics

Martina Pluda, country director at Humane World for Animals Italy, stated that the case exhibits “classic hallmarks” of a serious underground dogfighting ring, including the use of molosser-type dogs, doping, specialized training equipment, and the promotion and dissemination of fight videos on social media, sometimes involving minors and gambling.

Financial Motives and Criminal Deviance

The fights were organized for profit, with bets placed on the outcome, formalized through “private contracts.” Salvatore Vella, Gela’s chief prosecutor, noted that minors often attended these matches, which he described as “a form of training in criminal deviance.” Federica Faiella, president of Fondazione Cave Canem, added that dogfighting is often linked to other crimes, including illegal gambling.