Investigation Launched After Seven Vulnerable Giant Tortoises Found Dead in Devon

Devon and Cornwall Police, along with the National Trust and RSPCA, appeal to the public for information to aid in the investigation.

Seven Aldabra giant tortoises, a vulnerable species, were found dead in Ashclyst Forest, Devon, on National Trust land.
Two of the tortoises were discovered on January 8 and another five were found nearby on January 12.
Devon and Cornwall Police have launched an investigation to establish the circumstances of the deaths and to identify those responsible.
The police are appealing to the public for information, particularly from anyone who has recently purchased a giant tortoise in the area or knows of anyone who normally has a large number of tortoises but has fewer now.
The National Trust and the RSPCA have also urged the public to come forward with any information.