Dogs were seized by the RSPCA after a raid on a Merseyside ferry terminal uncovered the 'disgraceful' conditions they were being kept in.
Officers from Wirral's policing teams joined the National Crime Agency, UK Border Force and the RSPCA for the raid, which also led to two vehicles and a quantity of drugs being seized.
Three people were also arrested during the operation that took place at Birkenhead Ferry Terminal today.
In a post on Wirral Police Facebook page, a spokesperson said: "West Targeted Team Officers carried out an operation in partnership with the National Crime Agency, UK Border Force and RSPCA at Birkenhead Ferry Terminal, resulting in the seizure of two vehicles, three people arrested, a quantity of drugs seized and several dogs seized by the RSPCA."
In images shared with the post, a car can be seen being towed, with another image showing what appears to be a number of cannabis plants.
One upsetting image shows dogs crowded tiny cages with wood shavings on the bottom and water bottles attached to the mesh doors.
Facebook users commented on the post with Rebecca Hindle saying: "Awful poor puppies."
Karen Plows said: "Poor dogs."
Siwan Jackson said: "Puppies in cages with rabbit drink bottles what a f*****g disgrace, that's just inhumane and vile, they look like ferret cages."
Janet Wallis added: "Well done hope the dogs are kept safe."
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