TWO men have been arrested after a ferret was put into a hamster's cage and the ensuing horror filmed on a mobile phone.
The police and RSPCA have launched a joint investigation into the sick act, which happened early today at a flat in Tyne Dock, South Shields.
Two men who were guests at the property in Dock Street put the ferret into the hamster's cage, then used a
mobile video phone to film it ripping the rodent to pieces.
When the disgusted householder discovered the carnage, she contacted the police, and four officers arrived at the scene.
Two men were arrested in connection with animal cruelty, and a third in relation to an unconnected offence.
The mobile phone said to have been used to film the attack was recovered, and could be used in evidence against the accused pair.
Inspector Mark Ord of South Shields Police said: "This was a particularly sickening attack, and we have launched a joint investigation with the RSPCA.
"Two males arrived at the property at about 1.55am this morning, and, unknown to the occupier, placed a ferret in the hamster's cage and then videoed the ferret killing the hamster on a mobile phone.
"Two men, aged 19 and 40, are in custody and will be interviewed later today."
No one was at the address in Tyne Dock when the Gazette called today.
By PAUL MYLES-KELLYpaul.myles-kelly@northeast-press.co.uk