Diepenbeek (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Police in Limburg seized 31 fighting cocks in Diepenbeek, rescued by Bird and Mammal Rescue Centre, Heusden-Zolder. Rudi Oyen said illegal cockfighting remains an issue; authorities have 2 months to decide their future.
As VRT News reported, police from the Limburg Capital Region seized 31 fighting cocks yesterday, Oct 24, 2025, in a forest in Diepenbeek, in the province of Limburg, Belgium. The cocks were believed to be part of illegal cockfighting.
Fighting cocks have long legs, thick thighs, and strong chest muscles. The cocks were taken to the Bird and Mammal Rescue Centre in Heusden-Zolder. Each cock was placed in a separate enclosure to prevent fights. Some cocks were injured, but most were in good health. Staff said the cocks recovered well from the stress of transport and seizure.
“It has been quite a task to house the animals because they all have to be kept separately.”
Rudi yen, Bird and Mammal Rescue Center, Heusden-Zolder
What’s next for the 31 fighting cocks seized in Limburg?
Animal Welfare authorities now have 2 months to decide the future of the birds. They must decide whether the cocks will be returned to their owners, moved to a sanctuary, or humanely euthanised.
“It was a well-organised site,”
says Oyen.
“It was handled professionally and was virtually invisible.”
This is not the first time fighting cocks have been seized in Limburg. Rudi Oyen of the Bird and
“This used to be more common in Limburg. About 20 years ago, we saw a lot of it in the south of the province,”
says Oyen.
“We’re less confronted with it now, but that doesn’t mean it happens less. Fewer cases are simply being discovered, because those people aren’t stupid and organise it in all sorts of sheds and hangars that are far out of sight.”
Last year, the Tongeren court imposed fines on 8 individuals for organising cockfights in Wellen, with penalties reaching €3,200. Earlier this year, authorities recovered 21 fighting chickens in Bilzen and Genk. Police and animal welfare organisations are monitoring the situation and will act when illegal activities are discovered.
