Around the clock surveillance at 16 Northern Ireland badger setts has had total success in keeping them safe from criminal ‘badger baiting’ gangs.
Operation Brockwatch, led by the Ulster Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and NI Badger Group, was commended at the 32nd Annual National Wildlife Crime Prevention Conference.
The initiative, involving police and landowners, focused on setts previously targeted by “cruel individuals” intent on baiting the protected species with terriers and packs of “vicious dogs”.
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Footage of “suspicious behaviour from a select few individuals” near the setts has also been passed to police “to help identify any individuals who may have priors relating to badger baiting or other acts of animal cruelty”.
Now in its third year, a network of volunteers has been established to drive the project forward.
USPCA Chief Executive, Brendan Mullan, said: “We are very pleased Operation Brockwatch has been recognised on a national level as an effective crime prevention strategy.
“Badger baiting is a cruel and ruthless ‘blood sport’ and we are appalled it continues to take place in Northern Ireland. Often, individuals will trespass on rural land where active setts are located and will send small terrier-type dogs with trackers down the holes to locate the badgers.
“Once located, the baiters dig down, exposing the badgers which are then dragged above ground and set upon by a larger group of vicious dogs. We are pleased that 24/7 surveillance has proven an excellent deterrent to those who carry out this cruel activity.”
Peter Clarke from NIBG added: “This form of badger persecution is premeditated cruelty at its very worst and causes unthinkable suffering – however, it’s merely seen as an enjoyable weekend hobby by these cruel individuals.
“Many dogs forced to engage in this activity also experience terrible injuries as badgers will put up a brave fight for their lives. Often the dogs’ wounds are crudely stitched together with no veterinary expertise – sometimes the dogs who ‘fail’ the task at hand are themselves slaughtered without mercy and at times, left to die in the badger setts.
“This award highlights the significance of Operation Brockwatch in successfully deterring badger baiters.”
Peter has also urged anyone who sees ongoing sett disturbance to call 999 and report it to police.
“If the motives of strangers seen in the locality seem suspicious the PSNI non-emergency line 101 will assist. Anyone uneasy at contacting the authorities directly can use Crimestoppers by dialling 0800 555 111,” he added.
He also urges anyone who comes across badger baiting gangs not to approach them or draw attention to yourself.
Instead, he suggests making a note of the numbers involved, their precise locality, if dogs are being used and car makes, models, colours and registration numbers.
“Operation Brockwatch is strengthened greatly by the public who recognise their duty to protect our native wildlife – through their support and the reporting of suspicious activity, we can help clamp down on this malicious crime and ensure wrongdoers are apprehended,” he said.
“Northern Ireland has tough animal welfare legislation in place – maximum five-year custodial sentences, lifetime bans from keeping animals and fines of up to £20,000 – it’s imperative that these individuals are caught, and adequate sentencing is handed down by the Courts.
“Together we can send a clear message that there is no place for badger baiters in Northern Ireland.”
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