Four friends arrested over sickening attack on giraffe ask police for protection

A GANG of friends arrested for tormenting zoo animals have asked police for protection after they were identified online.

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

They have been threatened online after being nabbed, along with a fourth, unnamed 20-year-old, near Marwell Zoo.

Police are said 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 attraction near Winchester, Hants.

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

In one, a giraffe is struck in the head with a can while, in a second, a tiger flees in fear after being kicked at.

Huggitt, who has aspirations to join the Army, is said to be a carpenter, while old pal Green works on building sites.

Coral 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.

The social media footage has provoked an angry backlash, leading to the suspects asking for police protection.

All four, who have been bailed, laid low yesterday and refused to comment.

Coral Lock’s mother, Zoe, said she had no comment when approached at the family home.

Multiple police units, including armed response officers, a dog unit and a helicopter were dispatched to catch the intruders amid fears endangered animals were at risk.

White rhinos, targeted by poachers for their valuable horns, are among those at the zoo, near Winchester.

Worried staff called police following reports on social media that raiders were “throwing things” at some of the animals.

As the armed squad searched the zoo using night vision goggles, they also spotted a wary cheetah keeping a watchful eye on the police dogs.

The zoo is home to Southern White Rhinoceros, Amur Leopards, Giant Anteaters, Pygmy hippos and Humboldt penguins - all of which are currently endangered and at risk of extinction.

A spokeswoman for Marwell Zoo said: "We are aware of the appalling videos being circulated online showing our endangered animals in distress and we continue to assist the police with their investigation.

"Our animals are all safe and those affected are being carefully monitored and cared for by our expert animal teams.

"Marwell is a conservation charity and this has happened at a time we are facing the toughest challenge in our nearly 50 year history after losing more than £4 million in revenue due to the coronavirus pandemic.

"We are humbled by the messages of support from our community and the generosity of those who have donated to our JustGiving fundraising appeal, which is helping us to care for our animals during this unsettling time.”

GOT a story? RING The Sun on 0207 782 4104 or WHATSAPP on 07423720250 or EMAIL exclusive@the-sun.co.uk