Win for North East wildlife as police seize harmful tools and traps

A joint effort from Northumbria Police and the RSPCA led to a huge haul of poaching and hunting equipment being seized last week.

The Rural Crime Team, Alnwick and Hexham NPT and partners from the RSPCA and National Wildlife Crime Unit leapt into action last Friday, January 7 as warrants were executed at two addresses.

One of the properties was in Hexham and the other in Longframlington.

Officers conducted searches of both properties and came across a number of electronic devices and animal traps.

Animals were also present at a property and were given welfare checks by the RSPCA.

The Force’s Wildlife Enforcement Officer, Peter Baker, has welcomed the results of the searches.

He said: “When suspected illegal hunting by individuals living at these addresses and after it was brought to our attention by the Naturewatch Foundation, we joined forces with partners and acted.

“As a result a number of items commonly used by poachers and illegal hunters have been seized while our investigations continue

“As a Force we are committed to protecting our area’s wildlife.

“We strongly believe those who mistreat or neglect any animal should be punished and have their day in court.

"We always encourage anyone with any information regarding the suspected mistreatment of wildlife through hunting, poaching or any other means to get in touch and our dedicated teams will investigate.”