Police Crackdown on Catapult Crime as Wildlife Attacks Surge
Wildlife Under Siege from Catapult Vandals
Catapult crime is on the rise, with swans, ducks, squirrels, pigeons — and even domestic cats — falling victim to senseless attacks. The 123 Wildlife Network, a volunteer group, has documented dozens of disturbing incidents across local parks.
Rae Gellel, founder of the Greenwich Wildlife Network, slammed the lack of police action: “This has been going on for months — the same culprits, the same parks, the same weapons — and yet nothing changes. We’ve provided police with CCTV footage, photos, even named suspects, but follow-up is rare.”
Campaigners Demand Tougher Catapult Laws
Despite the ongoing menace, current laws don’t ban owning or carrying catapults in public. Furious campaigners are calling for urgent changes to crack down on these dangerous weapons.
Gellel revealed plans for a fresh petition pushing for tighter regulations on sales and public carrying of catapults. “How can legislation be adequate when this cruelty continues unchecked?” she asked. “We’ve protested, petitioned, reported hundreds of incidents. Still, no meaningful action.”
Police Plea: Report Catapult Attacks
Police are urging the public to keep reporting catapult attacks via 101 or online. Authorities say community tips are essential to catching offenders and targeting hotspot areas where these brutal attacks are most common.
“We need Parliament to recognise the serious harm being done. Without new laws, these individuals will continue to terrorise wildlife and communities with impunity,” Gellel warned.
