Gardaí broke up a suspected cock fighting event in Co Monaghan last weekend, where 15 roosters were discovered dead.
A further 70 roosters were seized alive from the property after a raid at a residence in Emyvale.
Responding to reports of illegal activity on Saturday morning, Gardaí arrived at the location and a large group of people fled the scene.
With the assistance of the Department of Agriculture, a warrant was obtained to search the property under the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013.
During the search, evidence of cockfighting was uncovered along with the deceased and live birds.
“An investigation is continuing at Monaghan Garda Station and Gardaí continue to liaise with the Department of Agriculture regarding this matter,” a spokesperson said.
Cockfighting is illegal in Ireland and is considered an animal welfare offence.
