Stolen animals 'may get into food chain': Somerset rural crime team urges precaution

Last year Somerset suffered extensive livestock theft, during the spring and early summer
Last year Somerset suffered extensive livestock theft, during the spring and early summer

The Somerset Rural Crime Team has issued a precaution against a recent spate of livestock thefts, saying stolen animals may get into the food chain.

PC Katy Drabble explained that farmers raise their animals, transport and slaughter them according to strict guidelines, which thieves are not necessarily going to adhere to.

"There is no guarantee that the animals will be fit, healthy and dealt with correctly if they are arriving into people’s freezers via illegitimate channels," she said.

"If you are in the trade and buying livestock please check the provenance and documentation of the animals is as it should be. We have been liaising with the livestock markets and slaughter houses asking them to be vigilant.

These thefts have a huge impact on the livelihoods of the individual farmers and small holders
These thefts have a huge impact on the livelihoods of the individual farmers and small holders'

"I would also remind the public that if someone is offering you animals/butchery products for a price that seems too good to be true, then it probably is.

PC Drabble explains that the last two weeks the community have seen a 'dramatic increase', with six incidents of sheep thefts in a short space of time.

The thefts have occurred across the county in Chinnock, Mark, South Petherton, Ilminster, Langport where 240 sheep were taken from a field overnight between the 24/25 July, and most recently Long Sutton. Pigs and geese have also been taken.

Thefts have a 'huge' impact on livelihoods

PC Drabble continued: "These thefts have a huge impact on the livelihoods of the individual farmers and small holders.

"Not only do they have to buy new stock but it takes a long-time to build up a well-established flock again; the long-term impact is massive We are looking into these incidents and investigations are ongoing.

"We are asking the communities of Somerset to be vigilant for anyone moving livestock around particularly at night.

"If you see people in fields or with vehicles containing livestock at night, please give us a call - we would rather ascertain a person is there legitimately, than have to deal with a subsequent theft.

"We would suggest ensuring that your animals are tagged, boundaries and gates are in good order and wherever possible locked.

"If possible, put something heavy in front of gates to make life harder for thieves; however don’t leave trailers or anything that can be used to steal/transport the sheep.

"Please try not to leave keys in vehicles, even if they are in your yard. If you are keeping or rearing animals in barns or out-buildings, make sure that gates and doors are locked.

"Anything you can do to make life more difficult for thieves will help minimise the risk of losing livestock.