THREE men have been detained and catapults with metal shot seized after suspected poaching.

Officers of the Dorset Police rural crime team detained the men and searched a vehicle following reports of suspected poaching in Spetisbury. 

An investigation is underway after the catapults and shot were seized, with reports that dogs and ferrets are alleged to have been used to illegally hunt wildlife.

The offences are believed to have taken place at around midday on Friday, February 9.

The rural crime team has appealed to the public for information that could help in its investigation.

A spokesperson for the force said: “Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at dorset.police.uk, quoting occurrence number 55240020881.

“Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.”