Three youths aged between 12 and 15 are facing charges after allegedly killing a penguin on Tasmania’s North-West coast.
Police have been ‘actively investigating’ the mistreatment of penguins in the area since Sunday, 12 March 2023.
The breakthrough in the case came on Friday, when the police released CCTV images to the media.
The images helped identify a number of youths who were then questioned by the authorities.
The information they provided led the investigators to a location on Burnie West Beach, where a deceased penguin from the incident was discovered.
As a result of this investigation, the three youths will be charged with offences relating to cruelty to animals and the maiming and killing of a protected species.
They will be subject to the provisions of the Youth Justice Act.
Tasmania Police have thanked members of the community who came forward with crucial information that led to the identification of the youths involved.
Tassie teens injure penguins, leave one needing surgery
Authorities have launched an investigation after an ‘appalling incident’ that involved several youths reportedly mistreating penguins in Northern Tasmania on Sunday night – leaving one with serious injures and in need of surgery.
The incident at the Burnie Foreshore was witnessed by a member of the public who promptly notified the authorities.
One of the penguins is currently in the care of a local veterinarian and undergoing surgery as a result of injuries sustained.
The Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service has been informed of the incident and an investigation is underway. Police are asking for the public’s assistance in identifying those involved, particularly a young female who was carrying a distinctive, brightly-coloured backpack.
Sergeant Ben Elliot, who is leading the investigation, has urged anyone with information about the incident or the identity of the youths to contact Burnie Police.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the police on 131 444 or to make an anonymous report to Crime Stoppers Tasmania at crimestopperstas.com.au.
