‘Serious concerns’ after cat caught in suspected illegal trap in Derbyshire
Police are appealing for information after a cat was caught in a suspected gin trap.
A cat was found with its leg trapped in what is believed to be a gin trap on Saturday, January 31.
The incident took place in the Hayfield area and has sparked concerns over safety of pets and wildlife.
Gin traps are spring-operated traps, which are designed to catch animals’ limbs with metal jaws.
They have been illegal in the UK since 1958 due extreme cruelty caused to to animals.
Police are currently investigating the incident to find out who was responsible for setting up the trap in the Hayfield area.
A spokesperson for Derbyshire Rural Crime Team said: “Thankfully, the cat was not injured, but this incident has caused significant distress to the owners and raises serious concerns for the safety of pets and wildlife locally.
“We are keen to establish where this trap was set and who may be responsible.”
Officers have launched an appeal to the public urging anyone who has any information about traps being set up or removed to come forward.
Anyone who can help police with their enquiries is asked to contact the force on any of the methods below, quoting incident number 26*63028:
To report directly to Derbyshire police use a dedicated online crime reporting tool or call 101.
You can also anonymously contact the independent charity CrimeStoppers, on 0800 555 111, or by visiting the CrimeStoppers website.