A lake investigation in Thamesmead has been closed due to a “lack of evidence”, say police.

Officers were called to Southmere Lake in Bazalgette Way just before 8.50pm on September 24.  

A spokesperson for Metropolitan Police said today (December 15) that no arrests have been made following the incident.

It also confirmed that the case is now closed due to “a lack of viable evidence.”

Officers say the case can be reopened if any information develops.

A person had reportedly seen three sacks floating in the lake that appeared to have something inside them.  

Marine Policing Unit officers attended and the bodies of four dogs were recovered from the lake.   

An investigation was launched by the Metropolitan Police and RSPCA following the incident. 

The RSPCA said some dogs were found with cropped ears, which is an illegal procedure to carry out in the UK, unless for medical reasons.

RSCPA chief inspector, Mark Miles, said finding four dead dogs of the similar breed known as XL American Bullies, suggests they were dumped by the same owner.  

He said one of the dogs, who was a brown and white female American bull breed, was approximately seven months old. 

Any witnesses or anyone with any information is asked to call police on 101 and quote reference CAD 6661/24SEP.

Information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

A spokesperson for Metropolitan Police said: “Officers who were investigating an allegation of animal cruelty after four dogs were recovered dead from a lake have concluded the investigation.

“Officers were called at 20:49hrs on Saturday, 24 September to Southmere Lake, Bazalgette Way, SE22.

“A person had reported three sacks floating in the lake which appeared to have something inside them.

“Marine Policing Unit officers attended and the bodies of four dogs were recovered from the lake. 

“The dogs appeared to be similar to the American Bulldog type.

“After an investigation the case has been closed due to a lack of viable evidence, there have been no arrests.

“Should any further information come to light the case can be reopened. 

“Any witnesses or anyone with any information is asked to call police on 101 or contact via Twitter @MetCC. Please quote CAD 6661/24SEP 

“To give information anonymously contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

A spokesperson for RSPCA on September 30 said: “The bodies of the dogs were removed by Metropolitan Police officers last weekend (September 24) at around 9pm, after they were noticed by shocked locals. 

"The RSPCA has now launched an investigation. 

"One dog was floating in the water, whilst a further three were contained inside a plastic bag. Since the bodies were recovered, the RSPCA has been working alongside vets to find out more about the dogs, but officers are appealing to anyone who recognises the dogs to come forward. 

"Some of the dogs has cropped ears - a procedure, which is illegal to carry out in the UK, unless for medical reasons."