An investigation is under way after 13 lambs had their necks "deliberately broken" at a farm in Co Down.
The PSNI said it received a report that the lambs had been killed on a farm on Drumsesk Road in Rostrevor between 7pm on Friday and 7.45am yesterday morning.
"It appears that their necks had been deliberately broken," a PSNI inspector said.
"This is a shocking crime, and we would be keen to hear from anyone who noticed anything unusual in the area during the times above."
Sinn Féin councillor Mickey Ruane said he understood the livestock belonged to two brothers who farmed the land where the animals were found.
Cllr Ruane said it was a despicable act involving extreme cruelty to the animals which would also impact the livelihoods of their owners.
He appealed to anyone with information about what he called an "unusual and cruel incident" to pass it on to police.
Police also issued an appeal to anyone with information to contact officers on 101 quoting reference 495 14/03/26.
They encouraged the public to report online at psni.police.uk/makeareport or to contact Crimestoppers with 100% anonymity on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.
