Fleeing suspects have managed to get away in a high-speed pursuit near Devizes.
A significant number of police officers responded to a 999 call reporting illegal hunting in the All Cannings area early this morning (Thursday).
A National Police Air Service helicopter from Wales was deployed alongside firearms and traffic officers, who provided urgent support to the Rural Crime Team and local officers.
A silver Jeep, believed to be used in hare coursing, failed to stop for police – and a pursuit was authorised. However, the vehicle was lost for a short time.
According to a local resident, the car was “doing about 90mph past the village school on a single lane country road” with four occupants.
She claims one occupant was “filming [and] laughing in the back” as they made their getaway.
Adding: “A minute earlier and myself and my daughter would’ve been dead!”
A member of the public later contacted the police to report that the vehicle had caused damage to fences before the suspects abandoned it in a woodland near Oare.
A search of the car – which was seized – revealed a bag of ball bearings.
A spokesperson for Wiltshire Police said that enquiries are ongoing as they work to identify those involved.
