Hen Harrier operation on the hunt for suspects in the Yorkshire Dales

On Wednesday, (17 April 2024), a National Harrier Task Force operation was held at an undisclosed location in the Yorkshire Dales.

Our Rural Task Force deployed with the National Wildlife Crime Unit on a warrant to search land and premises that are suspected to be linked to the illegal killing of Hen Harriers and the theft of satellite tags.

 

 

 

Police Sergeant David Lund, of the Rural Task Force, said: “The searches were conducted by dedicated police officers and staff who used detection dogs, drones, radio tracking and metal detectors.

“We are pushing the boundaries with new tactics and equipment as well as with innovative new partnerships. This includes the use of wildlife crime detection dogs and drones.

“With these additional assets, we are able to expand our search parameters significantly which will strengthen our chance of bringing perpetrators to justice.

“We want to send a strong message that the persecution of Hen Harriers will not be tolerated in North Yorkshire.”

The investigation is ongoing and North Yorkshire Police’s Rural Task Force are appealing for anyone with information about suspected offending to get in touch.

If you can help, please make a report via the North Yorkshire Police website or by calling 101, option 4, and speak to the Force Control Room.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or make an online report.