Gang Arrested In Marwell Break-in Probe Reportedly Ask For Police Protection

Four friends arrested for allegedly abusing zoo animals have asked police for protection after they were identified online, it has been reported.

Jason Huggitt, his girlfriend Coral Lock and school pal Brad Green, all 22, are said to be in fear of reprisals.

According to a report in The Sun, they have been threatened online after being arrested, along with a fourth, unnamed 20-year-old, near Marwell Zoo.

Police are reported to be aware of the angry backlash online and have posted extra officers near their homes.

The four suspects all live within ten miles of the zoo.

They were detained after distressing mobile phone clips of yobs tormenting animals surfaced on social media.

A giraffe was struck in the head with a bottle or can while, in a second, a tiger runs in fear after being kicked at.

Lock was not said to have broken into the zoo but allegedly went there in her car to pick up those involved as police closed in.

All four, who have been bailed, have refused to comment.