Three women charged over snake 'cruelty' video

Image source, Police Scotland

Image caption, The snake was handed in to the authorities but later died

Three women have been charged with animal cruelty after a video posted on social media showed a snake being abused in Aberdeen.

Police Scotland said the video was circulated on Wednesday. The snake later died.

Two women aged 18 and another aged 19 have been charged in relation to allegedly causing a snake unnecessary suffering.

They are expected to appear in court at a later date.

An investigation was carried out with the Scottish SPCA.

The animal charity's Ch Supt Mike Flynn said: "Sadly the snake has now passed away and a post mortem is being carried out in order to establish the cause of death."