Police officers seized 20 animals in dawn raids this morning as part of an operation to tackle dangerous dogs.

The dogs, including a bitch and her six puppies, were seized in Lambeth under the Dangerous Dogs Act.

No arrests were made.

The Lambeth police operation was supported by the new MPS Status Dog Unit, the RSPCA and Lambeth Council.

It targeted those suspected of owning dangerous dogs, breeding prohibited breeds and organising dog fighting.

Lambeth Inspector Allen Davis, from Lambeth borough, said the operation followed "huge community concerns" about the misuse of dogs to promote fear and intimidate others.

Deputy mayor for policing, Kit Malthouse, added: "Weapon dogs are not fluffy pets. Do not be fooled by the wagging tail. They are kept to intimidate and cause injury or death, no different from a knife or a gun."

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