Pieces of sausage containing hidden sewing needles have been discovered in the gardens of a Marbella urbanisation.

The alarming find was made in the landscaped grounds surrounding Edificio Nelson, Las Chapas, with residents warning that the bait appears to have been deliberately prepared to injure or kill dogs.

Photos shared online show several chunks of sausage with metal needles pushed deep inside them, making them almost impossible to spot from the outside.

Another image shows one of the sausages lying on the grass where it could easily have been picked up by a passing pet.

According to local community Instagram account Marbella Se Queja, the incident has already been reported to both the Policia Nacional and Local Police.

The group said surveillance cameras have now been installed in an effort to identify whoever is responsible.

In a statement shared on social media, the page warned: ‘Pieces of food with hidden needles have appeared in the garden area of Edificio Nelson (Las Chapas), putting the lives of dogs and other animals in serious danger.’

It added: ‘The facts have already been reported to the Policia Nacional and the Local Police, and cameras have been installed to try to identify the person responsible.’

Residents are also being asked to contact the authorities if they witnessed anything suspicious in the area.

The warning concludes: ‘Maximum caution if you walk your pet in the area.’

Deliberately placing poisoned or booby-trapped food in public spaces is a criminal offence in Spain and can result in severe penalties, particularly where animals are injured or killed.

Pet owners walking in Las Chapas are advised to keep dogs on a lead, prevent them from eating anything found on the ground, and seek veterinary attention immediately if they suspect their animal has swallowed a foreign object.

Read more Andalucia news at the Spanish Eye.