Prison officials in Western Australia have suspended community work programmes while they investigate the allegations, ABC reports.

Concerns were raised after guinea pig carcasses were found in a shed near Wooroloo Prison Farm where prisoners on community work programmes can store tools and other materials.

Brad Royce, the corrective services commissioner for Western Australia, said the prisoners volunteering at the animal shelter had been told guinea pigs were “quite tasty” and it appeared there had been a “deal done”.

Western Australia’s leader, Roger Cook, said he was not necessarily opposed to guinea pigs being eaten, but did not think it was appropriate for the prisoners to have done so.

“I understand in some cultures they’re considered a delicacy, but it’s inappropriate for prison personnel on day release to take advantage of an opportunity at an animal refuge,” he said.