Six detained for hare coursing in Downham Market

Six men are due to appear in court on hare coursing charges after being caught by police near Downham this morning (Friday, November 20).

Officers received reports of hare coursing on farmland at Ten Mile Bank at 8.40am by a member of the public.

As a result, roads policing officers, local units and the NPAS (National Police Air Service) helicopter attended.

Six men. aged between 25 and 35, were detained and taken to Downham Police Station for questioning.

Two vehicles and other property including mobile phones were also seized. A lurcher-type dog was also found.

The six, from Wales, Cambridgeshire, Leicestershire, Northamptonshire and Berkshire, have been reported to court for offences under Section 30 of the Game Act 1831 which refers to “Trespass in pursuit of game”.

Residents in rural areas are asked to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to police as soon as possible. Specific information such as any vehicle registration, make, model and colour is particularly valuable to officers when attending reports of these types of offences.

Anyone who witnesses any suspicious activity is advised not to approach but to contact the police on 101 or dial 999 in an emergency.