Police are searching for a gang of animal abusers after a fox was doused in lighter fluid and set on fire in a wooded area near Kestrel Avenue and Linton Gardens in East London. The disturbing incident took place at around 1am on Monday, 27 February.
Neighbours were woken by distressing screams in the early hours. A local animal rescue group was alerted after a resident initially thought a human was in danger but instead found a group of men committing a brutal attack on a fox. The terrified animal managed to escape but suffered severe burns, and its chances of survival remain uncertain.
Investigations indicate that this group is known for repeatedly torturing foxes in the area. They have been seen prowling at night, lighting fires to flush foxes from their dens and using dogs to attack the animals. The suspects are described as four black males, aged between 18 and 20 years old.
Detective Constable James Mahoney, wildlife crime officer for Newham and Waltham Forest, said: “I am truly shocked and sickened by these appalling, cruel incidents. I urge anyone with information to come forward so we can catch those responsible and stop further harm against foxes. If you live locally, please check any doorbell cams, dashcams, or CCTV footage for evidence or suspicious individuals matching the description. We believe this group may be targeting foxes beyond the Kestrel Avenue area, so everyone in Newham must stay alert. Report anything to us or Crimestoppers anonymously.”
Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 or tweet @MetCC, quoting CAD 2533/27FEB.
Originally published by UKNIP.
