Fifteen dogs, including nine puppies, have been seized by police as part of an investigation into an attack which killed a 37-year-old man on Thursday.

Jonathan Hogg, who was described by his family as a “well-loved, sensitive, and kind person”, died in hospital after suffering serious injuries when he was attacked by a dog at around 9.10pm on Thursday in Leigh, Greater Manchester.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said officers searched two houses and seized 15 dogs, including six adults and nine puppies, believed to be the same breed as the one that attacked Mr Hogg.

GMP said two people were arrested yesterday (Friday, May 19) in relation to the incident.

A 24-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of being in charge of a dangerously out-of-control dog causing injury resulting in death.

While a 22-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of money laundering.

GMP Detective Chief Inspector John Davies said: “GMP officers searched two houses and seized 15 dogs (six adults and nine puppies) believed to be the same breed as that which attacked Jonathan.

“These dogs are now being cared for at a specialist facility.

“Items totalling a value of £37,500 believed to be the result of criminal proceeds have been seized.”

He added: “Dangerous dogs do not have a place in our communities, and we want to reassure the public that we are doing everything in our power to keep people safe.

“If you think someone has or is breeding dogs which endanger the public, please report it online on by calling 101.”

In a tribute released after Mr Hogg died in the early hours of Friday, his family said: “Jonathan was a well-loved, sensitive, and kind person who will never know how loved and appreciated he was by everyone who knew him.

“We have been inundated with messages of support and we ask for privacy at this time to come to terms with our loss.”