New York City and federal park authorities are increasing enforcement efforts after a concerning rise in animal sacrifices near Jamaica Bay, Queens. A recent report by the New York Post detailed a surge in ritualistic killings of animals, such as chickens, pigs, and rats, believed to be part of religious ceremonies.

In response, the National Park Service (NPS) announced plans to install mobile lighting by the Addabbo Bridge in Spring Creek Park to discourage nighttime animal abuse. An NPS spokesperson also confirmed that additional police patrols would be deployed to prevent further incidents.

Since July, at least eight animals have been found either dead or severely injured in the area. Authorities have discovered five wounded pigs, a nearly dead rat in a bag with chicken bones, and the carcass of a dog with a broken neck. City Councilwoman Joann Ariola stated that the New York City Parks Department will be increasing overnight patrols, especially in places like Sunset Cove Park, where remains have been found.

“I’ve gotten in touch with my partners at both the federal and city level, and we are going to bring a new level of enforcement to the area and really crack down on this sickening behavior,” Ariola told the New York Post. “Animals should not be getting tortured and mutilated for any reason. This ends now.”

Rescue groups and a local religious leader have suggested that a sect of Hindu devotees near Jamaica Bay may be involved in these sacrifices. However, other religious groups in the area, including those practicing voodoo, have also been known to use local beaches and parks for rituals, according to the New York Post.