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Police say they have charged two children with animal cruelty after they posted a video of them allegedly forcing a black swan to inhale vape smoke.
The two teenagers faces are visible in the video, which has been widely shared across social media, and appeared to show the bird pinned to the floor.
The video goes on to show one of the teenagers hold the beak of the animal, and then allegedly forcing it to inhale smoke from what appears to be a vape.
Police confirmed they had commenced an investigation into the video on Saturday, and just 24 hours later said two teenagers had since been identified and charged.
“Mandurah Police have charged two juveniles with ‘animal Cruelty – causing an animal unnecessary harm’ . This matter will be heard before the Mandurah Children’s Court later this month,” a spokesperson for Mandurah police said.
“Police recognise the strong community concern this incident has caused. however, reiterate this matter is now before the courts.”
Advocacy group Animals First Australia circulated the footage online prior to the arrest in a bid to identify the teenagers, and said the actions allegedly depicted in the video were “sickening”.
“We are still making enquiries regarding the welfare of the swan,” a post to their social media page said.
“[We are] attempting to make contact with the parents of the main offender … we hope they consider making a substantial donation to a wildlife rescue or sanctuary in response to this disturbing incident.”
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