Police have released an update after an appeal was launched to identify two people in relation to an alleged animal abuse incident on the Isle of Wight

The appeal, released by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary yesterday (Thursday, April 4), related to an incident where a man was witnessed allegedly causing physical harm to a dog on The Causeway in Freshwater. 

Police wanted to identify two people who could help them establish what happened.

As a result of the appeal, a police spokesperson has confirmed two individuals have been identified, and officers will be speaking to them as part of enquiries. 

Police are urging the public not to speculate on the circumstances of the incident on social media.

The spokesperson said: "We note this incident has attracted some significant commentary on social media – we understand the community’s concern, however, we urge people to please not speculate on the circumstances through online commentary.

"The investigation team will seek to establish the full circumstances of this incident."