Investigation Launched After Pigs Left in Transporter Overnight

Animal rights organization VGT has reported a serious incident involving the treatment of pigs during transport in the district of Baden. According to the organization, the pigs were left confined in a transport vehicle for an extended period overnight, which they argue is a clear violation of animal transport regulations.

Following a tip-off, VGT members arrived at the scene and subsequently filed a complaint with the local authorities. Upon arrival, the police assessed the situation and took note of the allegations made by the VGT.

The VGT cites Article 3 of the EU Animal Transport Regulation, which stipulates that all necessary measures must be taken prior to the transport of animals to ensure that the duration of transport is kept as short as possible and that the needs of the animals are adequately met during the journey. Furthermore, it mandates that transport should occur without unnecessary delays.

According to VGT's assessment, the prolonged confinement of the pigs in the transport vehicle not only violated the regulation regarding the duration of transport but also raised concerns about whether the animals had access to food and water. A representative from the VGT expressed profound concern regarding the situation, highlighting the distress that the pigs might have experienced while being stuck in an unfamiliar environment without essential resources.

Authorities from the local police department confirmed the incident, stating that a patrol had observed a truck equipped for animal transport parked at a farm. Sounds from within the vehicle indicated the presence of a number of pigs. However, police noted that the animals appeared calm and showed no signs of distress.

Due to the design of the truck, officers were unable to make direct observations of the pigs, and no driver was present at the scene. The police concluded that it could not be determined whether there was a violation of animal welfare laws based on the circumstances observed. Given the time of night, it was assumed that the pigs were either sleeping or behaving quietly.

Since there was no indication that the pigs were suffering, the police decided against immediate intervention. They were able to identify the registered owner of the transport vehicle and reported the incident to the veterinary authority for further investigation. A report concerning the case has also been submitted to the public prosecutor's office for legal review.