Police and RSPCA officers have seized dozens of animals following a coordinated operation across three locations in Hampshire’s New Forest area.
The joint operation, which took place yesterday morning (Thursday 23 January), saw warrants executed at properties in Pennington, Sway and Lymington under Section 23 of the Animal Welfare Act. Officers recovered various animals including dogs, horses, cats and sheep during the raids.
PC Sam Chapman from Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary’s Country Watch team praised the collaboration between police and animal welfare officers. “This is a great example of police and RSPCA officers working together to safeguard the health of animals,” he said.
“It was a brilliant multi-agency effort, with these animals at the very heart of all of our hard work, both leading up to the warrants and during the course of the day yesterday,” PC Chapman added.
The operation, which lasted several hours, drew significant support from local residents. Many members of the public approached officers to offer assistance and express gratitude for their efforts.
“I’d like to place on record our huge appreciation and thanks for all of those who have offered to help us, or simply came over to say ‘thank you’ for what we were doing,” PC Chapman said. “It was a tough day for all the officers involved, but your amazing support was absolutely vital and invaluable to all of us.”
The officer also commended the local community’s patience during the extensive operation, noting their understanding of the sensitive nature of the work being carried out.
The RSPCA has now taken over the investigation, though authorities have confirmed that work will continue to ensure the long-term safety and welfare of the rescued animals.
This operation marks one of the largest animal welfare interventions in the New Forest area in recent months, highlighting the ongoing commitment of local law enforcement and animal welfare organisations to protect vulnerable animals.
