Hertfordshire Constabulary is investigating the reported theft of a pet turtle from the Three Tuns pub in Ashwell, an incident captured on security footage and shared by the establishment’s management. The reptile, known locally as Squirt, was allegedly removed from his enclosure on Friday evening, prompting a public appeal for his safe return.
According to the public house’s social media account, the incident occurred when two young children were observed lifting the turtle from its tank. The footage suggests the individuals then exited the premises and entered a vehicle described as a BMW. Local authorities have confirmed that they are reviewing the evidence provided by the venue to identify those involved in the disappearance of the animal.
The Sequence of Events at the Three Tuns
The disappearance of Squirt has drawn significant local attention, particularly due to the specific details surrounding the removal of the animal. Management at the Three Tuns pub, located in the village of Ashwell, reported that the turtle was taken during business hours on Friday. The pub, which functions as a hub for the local community, maintains the enclosure as a feature for patrons, according to Hertfordshire Constabulary, which oversees public safety and criminal investigations in the region.
Security footage, which the owners have released to assist with identification, shows two children interacting with the tank before allegedly taking the turtle. Witnesses at the scene or those who may have been in the vicinity of the pub parking area during the incident are encouraged to contact the police. The investigation remains active, with officers currently examining the timeline of events to track the movement of the vehicle identified in the report.
Animal Welfare and Legal Considerations
The removal of a pet from a business premises constitutes a theft under the Theft Act 1968, which governs the unauthorized appropriation of property belonging to another. In the United Kingdom, animals are protected under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, which mandates that those in charge of an animal must ensure its welfare needs are met, including protection from pain, suffering, injury, and disease. The sudden removal of a turtle from its specialized environment—which requires specific temperature and lighting controls—raises immediate concerns regarding the animal’s health and survival prospects.
Experts in reptile husbandry note that turtles are sensitive to environmental stress and sudden changes in habitat. If the animal is not returned to its proper care facility, the risk of dehydration or thermal shock increases significantly. The police have emphasized that individuals with information regarding the whereabouts of the turtle or the identity of the occupants of the BMW should come forward immediately to ensure the animal is recovered safely. Information can be reported via the official Hertfordshire Constabulary reporting portal or by calling the non-emergency 101 line.
Community Response and Ongoing Investigation
The Ashwell community has expressed concern over the incident, with many residents sharing the pub’s appeal to help locate the turtle. For a small village, the presence of a long-term resident like Squirt serves as a point of interest for families and regular patrons. The pub management has requested that anyone who recognizes the individuals or the vehicle from the footage reach out directly to the authorities rather than attempting to intervene personally.
The next phase of the investigation involves a formal review of all available CCTV footage from the surrounding area to confirm the license plate of the vehicle involved. Hertfordshire Constabulary has not yet announced any arrests in connection with the theft, and the case remains open. Updates regarding the recovery of the animal will be provided by the police as the investigation progresses. Residents and those with information are encouraged to monitor official local police updates for further developments or requests for assistance.