Kerkrade Intervention Team Takes Action Against Animal Cruelty

Recently, the Kerkrade Intervention Team, together with the animal police and the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA), conducted an inspection at a commercial warehouse. The inspection was prompted by a report submitted via Report Crime Anonymously (MMA) regarding the keeping and breeding of rodents and birds for sale under poor conditions. During the inspection, the report was found to be accurate. Hundreds of animals were found, some in cages that were too small, with insufficient water and moldy food. Dozens of dead animals were also found among the live ones. The NVWA took immediate action and called in the National Animal Welfare Inspection Service (LID). The municipality of Kerkrade, the police, the LID, and the NVWA are monitoring the necessary improvements. In addition, the municipality is taking action against identified fire safety deficiencies, which pose a risk to both the animals and neighboring businesses.

In addition to the police, the municipality also receives relevant reports from Report Crime Anonymously. Action is taken immediately whenever possible. The Intervention Team works in collaboration with various government agencies, each with its own responsibilities and authorities. The team is committed not only to combating illegal room rentals, subversion, and serious public nuisances, but also to preventing animal cruelty. 

Reports made to the municipality (14 045) or anonymously through Report Crime Anonymously (0800 7000 or meldmisdaadanoniem.nl) are essential in this regard.