POLICE have issued a warning about the dangers of eating illegally slaughtered animals following the theft of more than 20 pigs from a farm in north Dorset.

It was reported that 21 Large White pigs were stolen from a farm in the area of Ibberton, between Thursday, February 24, and Thursday, March 3.

Officers are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.

Police Constable Sebastian Haggett, of Dorset Police’s Rural Crime Team, said: “We would urge members of the public with any information about this incident to please get in touch with us.

“We would also like to advise that meat from illegally slaughtered animals is not safe to eat and should not be entering the food chain. If you have been offered meat you suspect to have been illegally produced and may be linked to this matter, please get in contact.

“Livestock theft is a serious issue and can have significant consequences for farmers.

“I would appeal to anyone who has seen anything suspicious in the area that may be related to this incident to please come forward.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk/do-it-online, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55220041191. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.