A total of 160 dangerous dogs have been seized by West Midlands Police in the last year, according to new figures.

The force has also brought in two full-time officers to try and tackle the growing problem of the breeds being kept as pets at homes across the region.

Police have launched a series of raids across the Black Country in recent months to capture suspected dangerous dogs.

In a report to the West Midlands Police Authority, Chief Constable Chris Sims said: “This is a growing area of business and the ownership of dangerous dogs is clearly becoming more common among the criminal fraternity.

“We have now appointed two full time dog legislation officers. Their role is to respond to reports and intelligence about illegal ownership of dangerous breeds.

“During the last 12 months 160 dangerous dogs have been seized by the force, many of which have subsequently been humanely destroyed. In some cases their owners have been prosecuted.”

In the latest raid on January 13 a suspected dangerous dog was seized during a raid on a house in Gurney Road, Bloxwich. The dog is suspected of being a pitbull terrier but tests are being carried out.