Seven stolen dogs found in Darlington police raid are shockingly stolen again whilst awaiting collection

Durham Police carried out an intelligence-led operation in Darlington last week where they recovered the stolen dogs.

Following the operation, the dogs were handed over to a local charity to be kennelled until their owners could collect them, but they were subsequently re-stolen.

• Durham Police say dog thefts are 'extremely rare'

One of the dogs, a roan cocker spaniel called Bruno, was found on Monday this week after being dumped in Leeds and taken to a vets by a member of the public.

He had initially been stolen from Buckinghamshire in December, along with two other roan spaniels.

An online campaign was launched to find Bruno and a statement on the campaign page said this week: "Bruno is safely home.

"He was picked up straying, having been dumped in Leeds early this morning.

"He was handed into a vet and owner advised.

"He's in good shape and checked over.

"Owner and family wish to thank each and everyone of you for all your shares."

• Devastated family offers £20,000 for safe return of missing dogs

Several of the re-stolen dogs remain missing and police are investigating.

A Durham Police spokesman said: "An investigation is continuing into the disappearance of the dogs and several active lines of enquiry are being followed.

"As a result of the ongoing enquiry, we are unable to comment further at present."