POLICE officers fear that a family of badgers could have suffocated after a sett was “purposefully targeted” in a “sickening act”.

Witnesses are being sought after a badger sett was destroyed at Bourne Valley Nature Reserve.

Officers believe that the location was targeted on purpose, with the offenders bringing builder’s sand and tools to carry out the callous act.

On examining the scene, police found that the multiple sett entrances had all been blocked and the surrounding area flattened.

The incident was reported to police by a dog walker on Monday, February 9. Officers have since been investigating the crime and are now appealing to the public.

Bournemouth Echo:

PC Claire Dinsdale, a Wildlife Crime Officer for Dorset Police, said: “Disturbing or damaging a badger sett is a criminal offence. Badgers have legal protection because of the sheer brutality of crimes against their species.

“This is a sickening act. Badgers normally give birth to their cubs at this time of year. Any family in the sett would have suffocated. The offenders have spent a great deal of time and effort to ensure all escape routes were blocked.

“I am appealing to the local community to report any information regarding this incident to me.

“I would also like to ask the many dog walkers, who use this area regularly, to keep their eyes and ears open and remain vigilant to acts like this. Any suspicious behaviour should be reported immediately.”

No arrests have been made.

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police in confidence on 101, quoting incident number 09:169. Alternatively, call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111, where mobile phone tariffs may apply.

Badger persecution is one of the six national priorities in wildlife crime. Further information in helping to fight wildlife crime can be found at nwcu.police.uk If you witness a suspected wildlife crime in action call 999 immediately and ask for the police.