Man, 40, arrested over illegal sheep slaughterings
© Tim Scrivener A man has been arrested over the illegal slaughter of sheep and lambs on farms.
Northamptonshire Police have been investigating a number of reports of sheep being killed and illegally butchered across the county.
In the latest incident, nine lambs were slaughtered, butchered and then thrown into a ditch on a farm in Clipston.
See also: Lambs strung up in gruesome attack in Northamptonshire
It was the fifth similar case in Northamptonshire in 10 days, following previous incidents on farms in Whilton, Crick, Kelmarsh and Rushton.
Officers have arrested a 40-year-old Hampshire man on suspicion of criminal damage and theft as part of the investigation.
Dedicated team
Det Insp Johnny Campbell, of Northamptonshire Police, said: “We’re taking this fast-moving investigation very seriously, with a dedicated team following a number of lines of inquiry into these awful crimes.
“One man arrested in connection with these incidents has been released under investigation, with inquiries ongoing as our investigators and the rural crime team work tirelessly to bring those responsible to justice.”
Anyone with information is urged to call Northamptonshire Police, quoting Operation Stock, on 101.