SIBU: Police nabbed 17 men on Sunday (Feb 28) when they raided an illegal cock-fighting event held at an open space at Jalan Bukit Penyau here.

       Acting OCPD Supt Dr Collin Babat said the suspects, aged between 19 and 75, ran helter-skelter when police arrived during the 3pm raid.

       Supt Collin said all of the suspects were rounded up after a short chase.

       "The raid was conducted based on information received from the public.

       "One of the suspects has a physical disability and another is a heart patient," he said.

       He said police seized four live and two dead roosters, three cock-fighting spurs and an electronic weighing machine at the site.

       The case will be investigated under Section 3 (1) of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act.

       Supt Collin reminded the public not to be involved in illegal gambling as it could lead to financial and social problems.