Marwell Zoo break-in: three men from Gosport arrested following animal abuse during burglary
THREE Gosport men have been arrested after a break-in at Marwell Zoo that saw property damaged and objects thrown at animals.
Reports of a break-in at the zoo in Thompson's Lane, near Winchester, saw several police cars and armed officers sent the area, including a police helicopter.
In a social media post, Fareham officers said that objects were hurled at animals during the incident, with pictures of the animal abuse being shared on social media.
Four people in total have been arrested in connection with the break-in.
Fareham Police wrote on Facebook: ‘Three males in their early 20s from Gosport are in police custody on suspicion of burglary today following reports that intruders had broken into Marwell Zoo (causing damage to the zoo premises) and were throwing things at the animals.
‘Multiple police units were deployed to the incident, including police ARV officers, a dog unit and a helicopter.
‘A fourth individual, a 21-year-old female, was arrested on suspicion of aiding and abetting the suspects, after police intercepted her vehicle trying to leave the area with the males on board.’
Anyone with information is asked to contact Hampshire Constabulary on 101, quoting reference number 44210057948.