Police are investigating reports of suspicious activity linked to hare coursing and illegal hunting on the Gower peninsula. Officers are urging residents, farmers, and landowners to remain vigilant and report any concerns.
Public urged not to approach suspects
Officers are asking members of the public not to approach suspected offenders. Instead, they should gather information from a safe distance and contact police immediately.
The Gower neighbourhood policing team is asking people to watch for suspicious activity, including vehicles parked on farmland, tracks, or gateways at unusual times; groups of people with dogs in fields where they do not appear to have permission to be; individuals shining powerful torches or lamps across fields at night; and incidents of trespassing or damaged fencing.
Police statement on organised wildlife crime
PC Simon Chadwick said: "Hare coursing is an organised wildlife crime that typically involves individuals entering farmland without permission and using dogs to pursue hares."
"It will not be tolerated."
"Offenders often travel significant distances, can cause damage to crops, fences and gates, and their presence can have a considerable impact on local communities and landowners."
Lamping reports and advice
Police have also received reports of individuals using powerful torches and artificial light sources, commonly known as lamping, in rural areas. While not all hunting activity is unlawful, suspicious behaviour involving dogs, vehicles and artificial lighting should be reported.
PC Chadwick added: "Please do not approach suspected offenders."
"Instead, gather information from a safe distance and contact police immediately."
Residents are advised to record details such as times and locations, vehicle registrations, descriptions of people, descriptions of dogs, details of weapons, or other items observed, and to report them to police.
