By Lisa Ramsden
POLICE are appealing for the community’s help to find whoever is responsible for the “absolutely horrific and barbaric” deaths of 13 lambs at a farm in Rostrevor.
Local councillor Mark Gibbons made the comments about the death of the young animals after police confirmed that “it appears that their necks had been deliberately broken”.
The 13 lambs were killed in a field on the Drumsesk Road, between 7pm on Friday (13 March) and 7.45am the next morning.
The PSNI has described the deaths as “a shocking crime” and urged anyone with information to come forward as a matter of urgency.
A local police inspector told the Mourne Observer that any information could prove useful as their enquiries progress.
“Police are appealing for information following the death of 13 lambs in Rostrevor.
“We received a report that the lambs had been killed at a farm on Drumsesk Road at some point between 7pm on Friday, 13th March and 7.45am on Saturday, 14th March.
“It appears that their necks had been deliberately broken,” the officer explained.
They continued: “This is a shocking crime, and we would be keen to hear from anyone who noticed anything unusual in the area during the times above.
“Enquiries are ongoing and anyone who can help should contact officers on 101, quoting reference 495 14/03/26.”
Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555111.
Cllr Gibbons echoed the officer’s appeal for the community’s assistance, adding that “even the smallest detail could help identify those responsible”.
“This is absolutely horrific and barbaric!” stated the independent councillor for the Crotlieve DEA.
“I am deeply saddened and angered to hear about the horrific killing of 13 lambs.
“This is such a beautiful and peaceful part of our countryside and to see something so cruel happen there is deeply upsetting.
“To do this to one lamb would be horrific, but to do it thirteen times is simply barbaric,” he said.
Mr Gibbons added that his thoughts are with the farmer and his family who have been “affected by this senseless act of cruelty”.
He concluded: “I would strongly appeal to anyone who may have information, dashcam footage or CCTV from the area to please contact the PSNI immediately.
“Even the smallest detail could help identify those responsible.”
