Police label animal activist illegal activity “extremely concerning”
VICTORIA police have labelled the actions of animal activists seeking money from the public to assist carrying out illegal activities against farmers as “extremely concerning”.
VICTORIA police have labelled the actions of animal activists seeking money from the public to carry out illegal activities against farmers as “extremely concerning”.
“Victoria Police is aware of allegations that some animal rights activists are allegedly seeking money from the public to assist with carrying out illegal activities such as livestock theft or break and enter,” a spokeswoman said.
“Allegations such as these are extremely concerning for police and any such activities and or where criminality may be involved is treated seriously.”
The Weekly Times last week revealed some activists were receiving up to $2000 a month from the public, via a website, to break into farms and steal livestock.
Victorian Shadow Agricultural Minister Peter Walsh said he wanted activists to “feel the full force of the law”.
“The courts need to make an example of these people so it sends a very clear message that illegally entering property and stealing is criminal activity and they should go to jail,” he said.
“It is ridiculous that they are committing offences and tying up police resources that should be used for major crime rather than activists who think they are above the law.
“ … anyone who donates to fund illegal activity should be held to account as well.”
Mr Walsh said the state needed a dedicated rural and livestock theft police squad but also said illegal activities were a “wider issue of public policing”.
He said biosecurity was another concern.
A spokesman for Agriculture Minister Jaclyn Symes said Victoria’s biosecurity system ensured protection of the industry.
“Victoria’s robust biosecurity system, which includes traceability, is in place to help protect Victoria’s livestock industry, ensuring it can continue to operate and trade without debilitating pest and disease outbreaks,” the spokesman said.
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