French police are investigating a series of animal abuse that took place across the country in recent weeks. Among other things, it is examined whether the abuse can be linked to Satanism or an ‘internet challenge’, writes The Guardian Wednesday.
Researchers have specifically advised horse and donkey owners in France to be vigilant after some 15 animals were found dead or seriously injured. In many cases, the animals’ ears, eyes, muzzle or other body parts were removed. In many cases the genitals of the animals were also injured.
In one incident, an animal owner was taken to hospital with a stab wound after confronting two men who broke into his house and dismembered two ponies and a horse. In another case, an 18-month-old foal was found dead. The animal had been stabbed in the heart and was missing several body parts.
At least 15 similar incidents have been reported across France since the beginning of the year. According to a police spokesperson in Paris, similar incidents also took place between 2014 and 2016 in France, Belgium and Germany.
Officers involved in the case are investigating the possible motives for the mutilations, including looking at whether the animal abuse can be linked to satanic rituals or an internet challenge. “We don’t understand what’s behind this. It’s something satanic. Is there a hunting trophy or internet challenge behind it? We just don’t know, but it’s very traumatizing,” said a spokesman for the French police.
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