WA Police have charged two pig hunters as part of an ongoing investigation into incidents of animal cruelty in the south west region of the state.
Officers executed search warrants at homes in Boyup Brook and Mullalyup, arresting a 52-year-old man and a 48-year-old man.
Both are contractors employed by an organisation that receives partial state-government funding and engages various contractors to support landholders in efforts to control pests.
The Police investigation focussed on information relating to dogs being used to kill animals that had been hunted or caught in traps.
The investigation was conducted by WA Police Force with assistance from RSPCA WA and the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development. Extensive enquiries were conducted by Boyup Brook Police in consultation with Bunbury Detectives. Further assistance was sought from Rural Crime Squad, and officers from Nannup, Bridgetown and Donnybrook to execute search warrants.
Police say the men allowed dogs under their control to attack and kill a pig “in a manner which is unlawful”. It will be further alleged that the 52-year-old man allowed dogs under his control to attack and kill a fox.
Both have been charged with animal cruelty and firearm offences and are due to appear in Manjimup Magistrates Court today.
