Probe into footage of snake being abused in Aberdeen

A joint investigation has been launched after a video emerged online of a snake being abused.

The footage was uploaded on social media, and shows two girls- who are laughing and joking- throwing the 3 and a half-foot boa constrictor across the street.

The animal was handed in to police this morning, after a member of the public found it near the beach in Aberdeen City Centre.

The reptile was being looked after by the SSPCA, but sadly died as a result of its injuries.

Both the charity and Police Scotland were this morning trying to locate the owner of the reptile but they are now also trying to find out what happened to it, and where the footage came from.

Chief Superintendent Mike Flynn said: “In conjunction with Police Scotland we are currently investigating an incident involving a snake being thrown about a street in Aberdeenshire.

“Treating any animal this way is despicable behaviour and we are urgently seeking anyone with any information to call our animal helpline on 03000 999 999.

In a statement, Police Scotland said: "Police Scotland has been made aware of a video circulating on social media which appears to show an incident involving the abuse of a snake.

We are unable to confirm the exact time or date of the incident but enquiries are ongoing with the Scottish SPCA to establish the full circumstances.

Sergeant Jonathan Spence said: “We would ask that anyone who witnessed the incident or who has any information gets in contact with the Scottish SPCA or police.

“Sadly the snake has died this afternoon. The snake was found by a member of the public in the Aberdeen Beach area during the morning of Wednesday, 4 July, and was collected by the SSPCA".