Six men arrested over suspected illegal fox hunting in Ambleside
Police are investigating allegations of illegal activity involving the Coniston Foxhounds
Six men have been arrested today as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged illegal fox hunting in the Ambleside area.
The arrests are linked to an incident reported to have occurred on Saturday, 8th November, during a meet involving the Coniston Foxhounds.
All six men have been detained on suspicion of causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal and remain in police custody.
One of the men arrested is additionally being held on suspicion of possessing an unlawful firearm, and police have seized three vehicles as part of their enquiries.
Chief Inspector Lee Skelton of Cumbria Constabulary said: "We take allegations of wildlife crime extremely seriously.
"Today’s arrests are part of the swift action we are taking to identify those involved and establish the full circumstances of the incident.
"Our investigation remains ongoing, assisted by the UK National Wildlife Crime Unit, and we are working closely with partner agencies to assist our enquiries.
"We are aware of a video which has circulated online and understand the strength of feeling this has caused within some of our communities.
"Those in police custody have been arrested on suspicion of causing unnecessary suffering to an animal, with one of the individuals also arrested on suspicion of a firearms offence. Further arrests are also planned.
"We will provide further updates in due course; however, I’d appeal for anyone who has information which may assist to please contact us."
Anyone with information related to the investigation is encouraged to report it to Cumbria Police online at www.cumbria.police.uk/report-it or call 101, quoting incident number 92 of 8th November. Alternatively, reports can be made anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.