GWYNLL EDWARDS AND SION DAVIES CAUGHT IN TREGARON BADGER CRUELTY CASE

A comprehensive investigation carried out by Dyfed-Powys Police’s Rural Crime Team in collaboration with the RSPCA has led to the prosecution of two individuals, Gwynli Edwards and Sion Davies, for serious crimes involving animal cruelty.

On the afternoon of Saturday, 6 January 2024, in the Esgairdawe area of Carmarthenshire, disturbing evidence emerged of illegal hunting activities that resulted in the death of a badger. Witnesses from the local rural community reported seeing suspicious behavior around a badger sett, which included digging into the burrows and the presence of two men engaging in suspicious activities.

One witness observed a man dragging a heavy animal down a hill and subsequently discarding her body in a nearby bog. The same individual was seen carrying a blood-stained terrier and a shotgun, raising immediate concerns about illegal hunting practices. The witness’s detailed account and photographs provided crucial evidence for authorities to identify the suspects involved.

RSPCA Inspector Keith Hogben examined the scene and confirmed that the badger had been shot dead, with fresh wounds indicating recent violence. The evidence collected, including photographs, allowed law enforcement to plan a series of arrests, which took place on Tuesday, 9 April 2024.

During the operation, both Sion Davies and Gwynli Edwards were apprehended at their respective residences. The police suspected them of causing unnecessary suffering to animals, interfering with a badger sett, and possessing a dead badger. A search of their properties uncovered a significant cache of firearms—nine in total—including a shotgun believed to have been used in the illegal killing. Authorities also seized a quadbike, dog radio collars, T-bars, nets, and shovels associated with terrier hunting activities. As a result, Davies’s firearms were confiscated, and his firearm license was revoked.

Both individuals admitted guilt to the charges brought against them. Sion Davies pleaded guilty to interfering with a badger sett, using a firearm to kill a badger, and intentionally killing a badger. Gwynli Edwards admitted to interfering with a badger sett and possessing a dead badger.

On 16 April 2025, the court sentenced them to sixteen months of suspended imprisonment. Additionally, Davies was ordered to complete 250 hours of unpaid community service and was required to pay costs amounting to £4,960.

This case underscores the ongoing issues of illegal hunting and animal cruelty in Wales, highlighting the importance of legal action as a deterrent to such unlawful activities. The authorities’ efforts aim to protect wildlife and uphold animal welfare standards in the region.