Remains of illegally slaughtered sheep found in beauty spot

THE decomposing remains of up to 20 illegally butchered sheep have been found dumped at a beauty spot

The carcasses and their fleeces were discovered at the Dwyryd Estuary, near Maentwrog, Gwynedd last week.

North Wales Police Rural Crime Team officers said they found some of the remains in black bin bags and others left in the open air.

Police say the animals’ ear tags had been removed, making it difficult to trace the owner.

The North Wales Police Rural Crime Team has appealed for help to find those responsible.

They tweeted: “Up to 20 sheep fleeces and body parts dumped at the Dwyryd Estuary, near Maentwrog. Illegal butchering and likely theft.

“We need to know who is responsible. Ear tags removed to avoid detection. Let’s catch the offender together #someonemustknow.”

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact police on 101.

The slaughter of animals – whether or not for human consumption – is governed by strict rules.

Legislative requirements such as slaughterhouse design, layout and equipment must be met by business operations, while people conducting certain slaughtering operations must hold a relevant certificate of competence.

The incident comes after a sheep was discovered professionally slaughtered and hanged from a tree at Rhosbodrual near Caernarfon in July last year.