Mossoró police dismantle cockfighting ring and seize 77 roosters

Police in Mossoró, Rio Grande do Norte, dismantled a cockfighting ring in the Puxa Boi community on Sunday. Following a tip, officers arrived at a rural property where they discovered a structure designed for animal fights and evidence of gambling.

Authorities cataloged 77 roosters at the scene. More than 50 individuals were taken to the police station to provide statements, including the property owner and the organizer of the disputes. Participants may face charges for environmental crimes and animal cruelty under Brazilian law.

Due to a lack of adequate public facilities in Rio Grande do Norte to house the animals, the 77 roosters were left at the property under the responsibility of the owner and a veterinarian, subject to commitments regarding their care and conservation.