Two people have been arrested following the death of a nine-month-old baby who was fatally attacked by an XL bully dog in South Wales.
The incident occurred in the quiet village of Rogiet, Monmouthshire, on November 2. Emergency services were called to a home shortly after the child suffered critical injuries in the attack. Despite efforts from paramedics, the baby was pronounced dead at the scene.
Gwent Police said the pair were arrested on suspicion of being in charge of a dog dangerously out of control causing injury resulting in death. They were later released on police bail pending further investigation.
Assistant Chief Constable Vicki Townsend confirmed the dog involved was a six-year-old male, black XL bully. She said: “The arrests were made as part of a wide range of enquiries that officers are carrying out to understand the circumstances of the death.”
Police confirmed that the animal had been registered with the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) before the government ban on XL bullies came into force earlier this year.
Under the ban, owners of the breed are required to register their dogs, ensure they are muzzled and kept on a lead in public, and hold valid exemption certificates. Failure to comply can lead to prosecution and the destruction of the animal.
Gwent Police said the XL bully was destroyed after the incident, and there is no ongoing threat to the wider community. The force is continuing to work with Defra and local authorities as part of the inquiry.
Residents in Rogiet described the area as “usually peaceful” and expressed their shock over the tragedy. One local resident said: “It’s heartbreaking. You just don’t expect something like this to happen in a small village like ours.”
The attack has reignited debate over the government’s decision to ban XL bullies in the UK. Campaigners have argued that responsible ownership and stronger enforcement, rather than breed-specific legislation, are key to preventing further incidents.
Police have urged the public not to speculate on the circumstances of the attack while the investigation continues. Officers have also appealed for anyone with relevant information to come forward.
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