North Hampshire patrolled in hare coursing operation

The Country Watch Rural Crime Taskforce joined rural neighbourhood policing teams on Wednesday night, September 30, for an Operation Galileo deployment across known hare coursing hotspots, particularly in the Winchester district.

The operation aimed to deter and disrupt criminal activity, reassure rural communities, and ensure officers were ready to respond to reports of rural crime.

A police spokesperson said: "High-visibility patrols of this nature remain a vital part of tackling rural crime.

"Alongside enforcement activity, intelligence gathered from local communities helps officers identify emerging trends, target resources effectively and plan further operations in the areas that have been affected most."

Officers patrolled farmland tracks and rural roads throughout the evening.

No rural crimes were reported during the operation, but police did encounter several vehicles of interest, some of which left the area after spotting officers.

Information gathered during these encounters has been logged to support ongoing investigations and future planning.

The patrols also gave officers the chance to speak with gamekeepers, farmers, and landowners about their concerns and to share information about rural crime.

Police are encouraging the public to continue reporting incidents of hare coursing, as well as suspicious vehicles or individuals.

Reports can be made by calling 101 or using the online form at www.hampshire.police.uk.

In emergencies or if a crime is in progress, dial 999.

Alternatively, information can be given anonymously to Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or through their website at crimestoppers-uk.org.

Those with business links to the rural sector in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight can also use the EyesOn app to share information directly with police.