South Korean Police Nab 68 in Raid on Dogfighting and Gambling Ring

(AsiaGameHub) –   In Daegu, South Korea, authorities have apprehended 68 individuals following a raid on a facility believed to be involved in dogfighting and gambling.

According to South Korean broadcasters TV Chosun and TBC, many of those arrested were reportedly observed placing bets on the outcomes of animal fights.

Police, alongside activists from the animal welfare organization Korean Animal Welfare Association, indicated that the fights were conducted in an undeveloped area within an industrial complex near the city.

Investigators estimate the fights took place within a “3-meter by 3-meter iron cage,” with spectators seated on camping chairs to observe the events.

Animal rights advocates reported finding “fighting dogs used for gambling purposes” tethered in the bushes near the location. Officers also discovered additional animals “chained to the guardrails on nearby roads.”

Investigators stated that the gamblers wagered sums amounting to “tens of millions of Korean won” on the results of these illicit matches.

During the police raid, the majority of the suspected gamblers attempted to escape. However, detectives reported that most were apprehended by police netting deployed to secure the single entrance to the industrial complex.

Dogfighting & Gambling: Police Charge 68 People

A representative from the animal welfare charity described the scene as “absolute chaos,” noting, “People were gathering near the entrance to escape, vehicles were swarming in, and car horns were blaring.”

Authorities reported that numerous dogs found at the site had sustained severe injuries, and several are currently undergoing veterinary treatment.

Activists shared that one dog was discovered in a “horrific condition,” reportedly suffering from broken teeth and a severely gashed leg following a particularly brutal fight.

The suspects have been charged with animal abuse-related offenses and illegal gambling. Police are continuing their investigation to identify the individuals believed to be orchestrating the gambling operation.

Investigators also reported finding syringes and various illicit substances at the scene, which they believe were administered to the injured dogs.

Punishments are Too Lenient, Say Critics

In South Korea, the maximum penalty for causing injury to an animal for gambling-related purposes is two years imprisonment, with the possibility of a fine up to 20 million won (under $14,000).

However, critics argue that these penalties are excessively “lenient.”

Late last year, animal rights activists in the southern part of the country raised concerns about the increasing prevalence of dogfighting rings.

Activists have stated that court and police efforts to combat illegal dogfighting are “lax,” which has contributed to a “resurgence” of dogfighting and associated gambling activities in regions including South Gyeongsang Province.