Two men charged with wildlife crimes

Police have arrested and charged two men following a number of offences under the Wildlife & Countryside Act (1981).

On Wednesday 15 June, two people were seen on CCTV using catapults and ball bearings to kill birds and rabbits in the Edinburgh Park area.

Warrants were subsequently executed at two address and vehicles in the Bilston area of Midlothian on Tuesday (June 21).

Items, including catapults, were recovered and a number of dead birds and small animals were found within one address.

Chief Inspector Jimmy Jones, North West Area Commander, said: “Most people would never think of hurting a defenceless animal and these acts have had a significant impact on our local wildlife.

“I’d urge the public to continuing reporting wildlife offences or crimes against animals to us via 101 or by contacting Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

The two men, aged 26 and 31, will be reported to the Procurator Fiscal.