Police believe the animals were smuggled in from the Republic of Ireland, and they would have been taken to England or Scotland to be sold.

In total, police seized 60 animals

Dozens of illegally imported puppies have been seized in Northern Ireland as part of a police operation targeting animal smuggling.

A 44-year-old man has been arrested following the operation at Belfast harbour estate, with 57 puppies, three adult dogs and a cat recovered.

Police believe the animals may have been smuggled into Northern Ireland from the Republic of Ireland and were planned to be moved to England or Scotland to be sold.

PSNI Detective Inspector Conor Sweeney said: “The male was arrested on suspicion of a number of offences including fraud by false representation and possession of articles for use in fraud.

The breeds of puppies that were found are the golden retrievers, miniature terriers, American bulldogs, American bulldogs, American bulldogs, American bulldogs, American bulldogs, American bulldogs, American bull dogs, American bulldogs, cocker spaniels, dachshunds, and roan spats.

They are currently being checked by a veterinarian.

Mr Sweeney said that although most recent seizures were related to illegal drug trade, these aren’t the only illegal items being traded.

“Smuggling can be carried out by highly organised cross-border criminal groups,” he stated.

“These groups won’t discriminate in smuggling of any commodity – whether it be cigarettes, drugs or animals.

“I use the word commodity as this is how crime gangs view the people and animals they smuggle – as nothing but commodities which they can exploit to line their own pockets.”

“Puppy smuggling is a criminal act that has devastating consequences for innocent victims, as well as the animals.”

“If anyone has information about any illegal activity, please contact police on 101. “