Italy dismantles international illegal dog fighting network

Italian Carabinieri and the Parma Prosecutor's Office have dismantled an international criminal network involved in illegal dog fighting. The operation, which included searches across the provinces of Parma, Bergamo, Venice, Pisa, and Rieti, resulted in the rescue of 24 Pit Bulls.

Investigators found evidence of systematic training and doping, including treadmills, heavy chains, weighted collars, and steroid medications. Documentation, such as calendars and logs, was seized to track doping schedules. A makeshift fighting ring constructed from wooden planks and synthetic carpeting was also discovered in Tizzano Val Parma.

The investigation, which began in 2025, suggests the dogs were illegally imported from breeders in Serbia using falsified documentation. The network allegedly used social media and messaging apps to share fight videos, increasing the commercial value of the animals. Twelve individuals are currently under investigation for animal cruelty and the organization of illegal fights.