A man was arrested today as an illegal pit bull terrier was seized in a dawn raid in the Black Country.

Police officers swooped on a home in South Road, Tipton, at around 7.30 this morning.

An 18-year-old man was arrested for possession of a prohibited dog under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991.

Police were aiming to find pit bull puppies following an anonymous tip-off puppies had been advertised for sale on Facebook.

Officers instead discovered the pit bull dog which was taken away in a police van.

Sergeant Stephanie Court, who led the operation, said: “We hoped to find a pit bull terrier and potentially some puppies which we expected to be pit bull cross.

“We had an anonymous tip-off pit bull puppies had been advertised for sale on Facebook by one of the occupants of the house.

“We found an 11 month old pit bull-type dog.

“One 18-year-old male is in custody and is currently helping police with inquiries at West Bromwich Police Station.

“The operation was a success because we recovered a pit bull-type dog.

“If we have any other reports of illegal dogs in the Tipton area action will be taken.”

People concerned that they have bought illegal puppies should call Tipton Police Station on 0345 113 5000.