A GANG of poachers who trespassed on to Ministry of Defence land in Wiltshire escaped from police.

The men had been using a large 4x4, which was traced by officers, to get on to and across fields across the county.

In one incident, military training was forced to stop after the driver decided to 'play Russian roulette' and drive through a live firing exercise.

PC Richard Clark from the Devizes Neighbourhood team, recently followed the vehicle and deployed a Stinger spiked trap to stop it. The abandoned car was later found near Market Lavington.

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A police spokesman said: “Despite our extensive efforts searching the area, nobody was located at the time.

“We are appealing for anyone who has knowledge of this incident or know where the suspects are to come forward. People can also report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

PC Clark added: “It has been good to put an end to the disruption and damage this vehicle has caused, including stopping military training, after the driver decided to play Russian roulette with a live military firing exercise and risk everyone’s lives.”