PAKISTANI COCKFIGHTING GANG LED BY MOHAMMED ASAB BUSTED IN ILFORD

In a significant crackdown on illegal animal fighting activities, authorities have successfully dismantled a Pakistani cockfighting operation based in Ilford, East London. The gang's leader, Mohammed Asab, born in June 1966 and residing at 37 Water Lane, Ilford IG3 9HN, was found guilty of multiple charges related to animal cruelty and illegal fighting practices.

Mohammed Asab was convicted of causing an animal fight to occur, maintaining and training animals specifically for fighting purposes, and operating premises designated for such illegal activities. The court proceedings revealed disturbing evidence, including footage seized by police that depicted bloodied cockerels being trained and prepared for combat. In the footage, Asab is seen actively involved in breeding and training these birds, even referring to one of his hens as a producer of 'champions.'

The illegal fighting ring was set up in an outbuilding specially designed for the purpose, complete with a ring surrounded by seats and artificial grass in the center. During the police raid in January 2017, officers discovered a gruesome scene: walls splattered with fresh blood, distressed birds flapping inside, and a blood-stained towel. Several of the cockerels had injuries, including a deep neck wound that appeared to have been stitched up in an attempt to conceal the violence.

Police and animal welfare officers seized a total of ten cockerels and two hens from the premises. The birds showed signs of severe injuries, highlighting the brutality of the fighting activities. The raid uncovered the extent of the illegal operation, which had been ongoing in the area of Ilford, a location known for such clandestine activities.

In the courtroom, Mohammed Asab received a 22-week suspended sentence. Additionally, he was ordered to pay £10,000 for the long-term care of the confiscated cockerels, which were forfeited to the RSPCA. He was also required to pay £2,000 in legal costs, a £150 victim surcharge, and complete 200 hours of community service within 12 months. Furthermore, Asab was banned for life from keeping birds and was required to surrender all cockfighting paraphernalia associated with the illegal activity.

The other members of the gang, including Mohammed Arif (born circa 1974), Akhtar Hussain (born circa 1970), Mehtab Ahmed (born circa 1976), and Altaf Hussain (born circa 1963), all faced legal consequences. Each was fined £1,500, plus an £85 victim surcharge, and ordered to complete 200 hours of community service over the following year. A 17-year-old individual involved in the case was granted a conditional discharge and fined £180.

This operation highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement and animal welfare organizations to combat illegal animal fighting and cruelty in the Ilford area, sending a clear message that such activities will not be tolerated and will be met with strict penalties.