Kent Police’s rural task force has issued a warning to sheep owners in the Sevenoaks area after a number of “unexplained sheep deaths”.
The force advised farmers to follow its advice following a recent spate of “suspicious incidents” in the Halstead and Chevening areas.
Between Friday, November 24 and Wednesday, November 29, Kent Police received reports that the remains of six sheep had been strewn across the garden of an address in Otford Lane, Halstead.
The hides and entrails of two more sheep were later discovered dumped in a layby in Ovenden Road, Sundridge.
Kent Police said enquiries are underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the sheep deaths, to identify the owner or owners of the deceased sheep and to locate those responsible.
Kent Police said there will be more visible policing in the area, but are advising sheep farmers to also put their own measures in place.
Officers are advising farmers to:
- Check their sheep regularly;
- Report any thefts;
- Be vigilant;
- Report any vehicles parked in rural locations and country lanes that they suspect may be involved.
PC Marc Pennicott from Kent Police’s rural task force said: “The theft of so many sheep and the way they were killed is abhorrent.
“Our dedicated rural task force is working relentlessly to identify the suspect or suspects and take robust action against them.
“Kent is home to vast expanses of rural land and the force prioritises the protection of its rural communities and works closely with partner agencies to bring those who offend in the countryside to justice.
“I urge anybody with information to contact us on 01622 604100 quoting reference number 24-0225.”
