A WARNING has gone out to restaurants to steer clear of meat from illegally slaughtered livestock.
PC Kate Taylor and PC Andy Timmins have visited eateries in Rugby alongside Environmental Health Officer Henry Biddington.
It was one of a number of tactical options being carried out to tackle a recent spate of sheep thefts and slaughters under Warwickshire Police’s Operation Hillman.
They checked the traceability of lamb meat and warned traders and retailers they could face investigation if they handle stolen meat.
The officers said: “It was reassuring to see the retailers we visited had their books in order and were receptive to the advice we gave.
“The more the word spreads around the industry, the more difficult it will be to sell illegal lamb.”
They said they will continue to visit butchers, restaurants and takeaways across the county to gather intelligence, educate – and conduct enforcement if required.
Two sheep in a field near Willoughby were butchered before being taken on Sunday February 23.
Police swooped on a property in Daventry where they found and seized items including bags of raw meat.
The investigation is ongoing.
Anyone with information should call police on 101 or report it anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 783 0137.
