Masked Animal Rights Activists Beat Hunter Unconscious with Metal Bars

2/5/2015

Masked Animal Rights Extremists: Last weekend a member of the public, going about the lawful pursuit of hunting in the Wiltshire countryside, was battered unconscious by masked thugs wielding iron bars.

Countryside Alliance Ireland

Ireland - -(Ammoland.com)- Write to your Police & Crime Commissioner and MP about masked animal rights activists.

Many of you will have seen the frightening images of Tedworth huntsman Mike Lane being attacked by masked animal rights extremists in Wiltshire last month (read a Sunday Telegraph article on this here.)

Unfortunately this was not an isolated incident. There have been a number of attacks carried out by hunt saboteurs wearing combat style clothing with their faces covered by balaclavas or masks. Most of the perpetrators are never identified.

The police do have powers to order the removal of face coverings, but they are not straightforward. An authorisation to remove an item of clothing that a constable “reasonably believes that person is wearing wholly or mainly for the purpose of concealing his identity” must be given by a senior officer in writing only when he or she believes that the individuals involved are going to commit an offence. Because the process is complicated we believe that all police forces should be prepared to deploy these powers when animal rights extremists appear in their areas.

That is why we are asking you to contact your elected Police and Crime Commissioner to ask him or her to raise this issue with your local police force and ensure they have a protocol in place. Where police forces are prepared to use these powers we believe that the likelihood of intimidation and public disorder is reduced.

Frightening Images Of Tedworth Huntsman Mike Lane Being Attacked By Masked Animal Rights Extremists

We also think it is important that your MP understands your concerns as the Countryside Alliance will be discussing the legislation on face coverings and harassment with all political parties.

Thank you for support. This is a really important issue and it would be helpful if you could share the campaign with your friends and contacts once you have taken part.

Tim Bonner
Director of Campaigns

About
Countryside Alliance Ireland has been active since the early 1960s, providing Irish sportsmen and women with high levels of information and advice and representation. Over the years as the political environment has changed we have evolved into a highly effective campaigning organisation. Countryside Alliance Ireland is governed by an elected “Board” made up from members throughout Ireland. The Board sets policy and oversees financial and operational matters. Countryside Alliance Ireland partner groups nominate members of the “Board” also, making it truly representative of country sports interests in Ireland. Visit: www.countrysideallianceireland.org

source