Third 'brutal and senseless' attack on Co.Down sheep

By David Hunter

A flock of sheep have been attacked with a knife in the third attack of it's kind in as many weeks. 

The latest incident was reported in the Ballyholland area, close to Newry,  sometime between 8.30pm on Wednesday 5 July and 8.00pm on Friday 7 July.

Chief Inspector Roy Robinson said: “It was reported that three sheep were attacked and killed in the area.

“Prior to that, sometime between 8.30pm on Tuesday 4 July and 8.00am on Wednesday 5 July a number of sheep were attacked at Temple Hill Road.

Some were killed at the scene – others were subsequently put down by a vet.

“And on Thursday 22 June, between 9.00am and 7.00pm, several sheep were killed and badly injured in the Mass Rock area.

Following the attack on Temple Hill Road, QRadio news spoke to Ruairi McCartney, who's elderly farmer owns the farm. 

He said the injuries being sustained were 'Definitely deliberate', and were more consistent with a knife than with bite mark from a dog. 

IMAGE: An ear cut from one of the animals in the Temple Hill Road attack.

Chief Inspector Robinson continued: “There have now been three brutal, senseless attacks on animals in the local area in recent days and we would appeal to anyone who has information that could help our investigation to contact officers in Newry on 101 quoting reference number 1246 of 07/07/17.

“Information can also be passed anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”