His two-year-old pet camel Scruffy had been killed. 

Police believe the “quiet camel” was shot in the head in the northern suburbs of Mount Isa, sometime between September 21-22.

Det Sgt Liam Scanlan from the rural organised crime squad said police were seriously concerned someone had fired a gun in town. 

“There is evidence the fence had been cut in parts to gain entry to the paddock,” Det Sgt  Scanlan said. 

“We do not have much to go on at the moment so we are appealing to anyone with more information to contact police. 

“This is a senseless crime. Paul is obviously really upset about it, he puts in a lot of effort with them,” he said. 

Mr Keegan said Scruffy wouldn't have attacked an intruder that came into the paddock. 

“He was as quiet as a mouse and did not have a mean bone in his body,” Mr Keegan said.  

“My camels are like my kids, I had been with Scruffy since the day he was born.”

Mr Keegan did not want to reveal the exact location of where Scruffy was killed, fearing it could promp further attacks on his camels. 

Serious animal cruelty offences carry a maximum penalty of seven years imprisonment.

If you have information for police, contact Policelink on 131 444 or provide information using the online form 24hrs per day.

You can report information about crime anonymously to Crime Stoppers by calling 1800 333 000 or via crimestoppersqld.com.au 24hrs per day.

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