Two Juveniles Stopped in Dundridge Amid Rising Poaching Concerns

Two juveniles were stopped late Tuesday night by officers from the Country Watch Rural Crime Task Force near the Dundridge area, as police intensify efforts to crack down on rural crime during the peak poaching season.

The boys were searched under the Poaching Prevention Act, during which officers seized catapults and lamps believed to be linked to poaching activities. The items are commonly used in illegal night-time hunting, particularly targeting game birds such as pheasants.

Enquiries into the individuals’ activities are ongoing, according to police.

This time of year typically sees a surge in rural offences, with poaching often accompanied by other crimes such as criminal damage, burglary, and threats or violence towards gamekeepers and landowners.

A spokesperson for the Country Watch team urged the public to remain vigilant.

“Please continue to report any suspicious activity in rural areas to police, so our Task Force can take action and target their patrols,” the spokesperson said.

The incident forms part of a wider campaign by Hampshire Constabulary to tackle wildlife crime and protect rural communities.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact police on 101 or report anonymously via Crimestoppers.