POLICE are investigating a suspected badger baiting incident which happened near Chester.
The Cheshire Police Rural Crime Team posted an update on Monday, January 31, explaining they had been called to a report of a badger sett disturbance, which may also be connected to (suspected) badger baiting at the same location near Chester.
The force added: "Unfortunately, it appears the sett has been recently targeted, and on more than one occasion.
"There were two distinct square areas of disturbed soil, which are typical signs of baiting activity. It is unclear whether the sett is still active as a badger sett or whether it has now been claimed by foxes.
"Regardless of whether used by badgers or foxes, it is clear the mindless destruction of the site - the chambers had been dug out - means it is highly unlikely the sett is still active.
"The investigation is ongoing, and we are following up lines of enquiry to identify those involved.
"Badger baiting, the digging out of a sett (or a fox den for that matter) is extremely cruel and a criminal offence under the Protection of Badgers Act, Wildlife and Countryside Act and Game Act."
- People are urged to call 999 if a crime is in progress, 101 if they have any relevant information, or report online via Crimestoppers Wildlife Crime at https://crimestoppers-uk.org/keeping-safe/rural-crime/wildlife-crime
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