The RSPCA have joined police in appealing for
information following the discovery of seven deceased giant tortoises near Exeter last week.
Two bodies were found in Ashclyst Forest on Monday 8 January and a further five were found nearby on Friday 12 January.
Police are investigating where the tortoises, believed to be Aldabra giant tortoises, came from and why they were disposed of.
Inspector Mark Arthurs said: “We are appealing to members of the public for information to try to establish the circumstances around this discovery and to identify those responsible. We would ask that if anyone knows anything, they get in touch.”
“We would also like to hear from anyone who has recently purchased a giant tortoise in the area or knows of anyone who normally has a large number of tortoises but has fewer now.”
An RSPCA spokesperson added: “We are aware of the distressing discovery of several large dead tortoises in Ashclyst Forest near Cullompton, Devon.
“While Devon & Cornwall Police are leading on this matter, we would like to find out what happened to these animals. If any members of the public have any information about the tortoises, including who might have owned them, we would ask them to contact us on the RSPCA appeals line on 0300 123 8018.”
Information can also be passed to police by calling 101 quoting 50240006127 or visit their website.
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