PSNI investigate reports of suspected hare coursing near Slemish

Police in Ballymena have attended the Shilnavogy Road area following reports of suspected hare coursing, as officers continue to step up efforts to tackle wildlife crime across the district.

Ballymena Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) confirmed they were in the area on Saturday (January 10) after receiving information suggesting illegal hare coursing activity.

Hare coursing, which involves the pursuit of hares by dogs for sport or gambling, is illegal and widely regarded as a serious wildlife crime due to the suffering inflicted on animals.

In a statement, police said: “Ballymena NPT attended the Shilnavogy Road today following reports of possible hare coursing in this area.”

Officers emphasised that tackling poaching and hare coursing remains a priority, particularly in rural communities where such offences can have a significant impact on wildlife and local residents alike.

The statement continued: “Our team are fully committed to increasing the level of awareness in relation to poaching and hare coursing as serous wildlife crimes.”

Hare coursing is often linked to wider criminality, including organised gangs, intimidation of landowners and damage to farmland. For many residents, the presence of illegal coursing can be deeply distressing, particularly for those who value the countryside as a place of safety and conservation.

Police are urging anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity, or who has information about illegal hare coursing, to come forward.

“If you have any information about illegal hare coursing please call the Police or as an alternative to contacting us directly, information can be passed onto Crimestoppers in confidence on 0800555111 or https://orlo.uk/KUz7V,” the statement added.

Crimestoppers allows members of the public to provide information anonymously, offering reassurance to those who may feel uneasy about reporting wildlife crime directly.

The PSNI has reiterated that public support is vital in helping to prevent illegal activity, protect wildlife, and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.