Police are seeking information that could lead to the identification of a gang of thugs who pelted an animal hospital with fireworks on Bonfire Night.
The barrage was so terrifying that the animal carers felt it was necessary to barricade themselves inside the building as the gang of youths fired explosives at the centre.
When the police arrived, they also found themselves under attack from the gang whilst them attempted to stop the incident and protect both the animals and staff at the hospital.
The gang also lined up a load of bins outside the doors of the hospital, meaning that the employees couldn't have got out of there, even if they'd have wanted to.
The shocking incident took place at the RSPCA Harmsworth Animal Hospital in Finsbury Park, North London.
Camera footage taken by one staff member shows the whole street lit up by the fireworks, and could be heard to comment that 'it's like something out of a warzone'.
Obviously, animals are not the best around fireworks at any point, but some of those staying in the hospital had to be moved around the building because of the distress they were in, as well as because of the fear that they could end up getting hit by one of the explosives.
It's a pretty horrible tale from start to finish, really.
A spokesperson from the RSPCA said: "Our dedicated workers at Harmsworth Animal Hospital are trying to continue to care and treat animals during the challenging times of lockdown and they should be able to do this without fear for themselves or the animals."
"Fireworks have been going off in this area during the week upsetting the dogs and animals in the hospital, and staff also reported sparks visible in the branches of the trees close to the hospital.
"We had one particularly horrible incident where fireworks were launched at a police car right outside the hospital.
"This anti-social and dangerous behaviour is obviously unacceptable but, as well as this, lockdown measures this year also mean that very few organised, public displays are likely to go ahead.
"We suspect this will mean people will have their own displays at home instead and we fear that this will result in lots of little displays taking place over a few weeks, spreading out fireworks noise and causing prolonged distress for animals."
"Fireworks are extremely stressful and frightening for lots of animals. But they can also cause very serious injury and even death to some."
The hospital is home to a load of sick cats and dogs. Attacking anyone or anything with fireworks can result in a fine of £5,000 or six months imprisonment.
Featured Image Credit: Triangle NewsTopics: Police, UK News, crime, Animals