Ferrets and dogs seized during wildlife crime raid

Dogs, ferrets and poaching equipment have been seized by police and animal welfare workers in a bid to tackle wildlife crime.

Ferrets were among animals taken from the properties raided by police and SSPCA staff.

Officers from East Lothian, working in partnership with the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA) and the Forth District Salmon Fishery Board, seized a number of items from properties in Haddington following a clampdown on wildlife crime.

Officers executed warrants at properties on Wednesday, Seoptember 10, following intelligence surrounding animal welfare issues.

As a result of the extensive search at the properties, numerous pieces of evidence, including a very large quantity of poaching equipment, were recovered in relation to wildlife crime.

The SSPCA also took possession of all ten dogs from the properties and four ferrets due to the conditions they were living in and their potential use in wildlife crime.

Chief Inspector Andrew Clark said: “Police Scotland has been working very closely with our partners at the SSPCA and the Forth District Salmon Fishery Board to identify and act upon examples of wildlife crime.

“The recent searches of properties, outbuildings and vehicles in Haddington - and the subsequent recovery of several items - should send a message to members of the public that we take the welfare of animals very seriously.

“Anyone who has any information relating to any criminal activity is urged to contact Police Scotland on 101.”