Six men have today (13 November) been arrested as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged illegal fox hunting in the Ambleside area.
The arrests follow an incident believed to have occurred during a meet on Saturday 8 November involving the Coniston Foxhounds.
All have been arrested on suspicion of causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal and remain in police custody.
One of the men in custody has also been arrested on suspicion of possession of an unlawful firearm.
Three vehicles have also been seized as part of this investigation.
Chief Inspector Lee Skelton, Cumbria Constabulary, said: "We take allegations of wildlife crime extremely seriously.
“Today’s arrests are part of the swift action we are taking to identify those involved and establish the full circumstances of the incident.
“Our investigation remains ongoing, assisted by the UK National Wildlife Crime Unit, and we are working closely with partners agencies to assist our enquiries.
“We are aware of a video which has circulated online and understand the strength of feeling this has caused within some of our communities.
“Those in police custody have been arrested on suspicion of causing unnecessary suffering to an animal, with one of the individuals also arrested on suspicion of a firearms offence. Further arrests are also planned.
“We will provide further updates in due course; however, I’d appeal for anyone who has information which may assist to please contact us.”
Anyone with additional information is urged to report information to Cumbria Police online at www.cumbria.police.uk/report-it or call 101, quoting incident number 92 of 8 November.
You can also report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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