Marwell Zoo break-in: Extra police patrols after Gosport and Fareham suspects arrested over 'appalling' videos
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It comes as national newspapers reported the four people arrested over Monday’s break-in at the zoo had sought police protection.
Hampshire police confirmed officers were conducting extra patrols due to ‘the sentiment’ expressed in comments on social media.
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Hide AdArmed police were at the zoo in Thompson’s Lane, between Bishop’s Waltham and Winchester, after being alerted to footage on social media showing a break-in at 11.40pm.
Two Fareham men, 20 and 22, and a 22-year-old Gosport man were arrested on suspicion of burglary, along with a 22-year-old Gosport woman.
As reported, one video purports to show a giraffe hit in the head by what appears to be a thrown plastic bottle.
A Hampshire police spokeswoman said: ‘The local teams are increasing patrols in the area after names and images were released online, and because of the sentiment in the comments.’
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Hide AdPolice said there are ‘outstanding enquiries to complete’ so the four were released under investigation.
A Marwell spokeswoman said zoo staff were ‘saddened’ by the incident and added: ‘We’d like to reassure our supporters that all our animals are safe and our expert teams are on site caring for them to the highest standard.’