Police in the UK have shown how helicopters have helped to tackle hare coursing.

The National Police Air Service's (NPAS) aerial surveillance operations and the Essex Police's Rural Engagement Team continue to reduce hare coursing, an illegal activity, in the county.

Footage shows men walking through a field in the middle of the night, carrying dogs on leashes. Moments later, after being spotted by the police, they quickly jumped into a car, prompting an intense pursuit that ultimately led to their arrest.

Through collaborative efforts and the use of advanced camera footage from police helicopters, officers said they have successfully tracked and arrested criminals involved in the act within rural communities.

Inspector Terry Jacobs of Essex Police said: 'Hare coursing is not a sport, it's a crime. We're sending a clear message that Essex is not a safe haven for such activities. The use of our helicopter, coupled with ground operations, has significantly raised the stakes for anyone contemplating hare coursing in our county.

'Our approach involves not just catching the offenders but preventing these crimes through community engagement,' he added.

Drones and the What3Words app are also being used by authorities to pinpoint the exact locations of reported incidents.

Essex faces challenges in combating agricultural crimes, prompting authorities to build relationships with farmers and estate staff by providing them with the tools and knowledge to secure their lands.

Hare coursing is a blood sport in which dogs, such as greyhounds or other sighthounds, are released to chase a hare in an open field. This causes the victim animal to suffer injuries, immense stress, trauma, or even death.