Police Scotland investigate mystery of sheep ‘butchered’ in field

The mystery of a sheep found ‘professionally’ killed and butchered in a field in East Ayrshire has prompted a police investigation.

The one-year-old female Texel, with a value of around £250, was slaughtered in a field near the town of Stewarton, on Tuesday, February 9.

Officers said they believed the “distressing” attack took place between 1pm and 9pm.

Launching an appeal for information from the public, the force insisted it understood the impact of crimes against livestock seriously.

Police Inspector Ian Harvey of Kilmarnock Police Station said: "We take these types of incidents very seriously and understand the impact this will have on the animals and the farmers.

“This a very distressing incident and I would appeal for anyone who has information or know who was responsible, to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting 1442 of 10 February.”

Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, if you wish to remain anonymous.

A message from the Editor:

The one-year-old female Texel, with a value of around £250, was slaughtered in a field near the town of Stewarton, on Tuesday, February 9.

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