Sheep rustlers have stolen more than 50 sheep in a raid on a north-east farm in Scotland.
Police Scotland has appealed for information after the theft of 54 sheep from Alves, Moray.
The livestock, a mixture of Cheviot and black face sheep, were taken from the Coltfield area between noon on Wednesday and yesterday morning of Thursday.
Pc Katherine Powell said: “The theft of such a large number of sheep would have required careful planning and the use of vehicles to transport the animals away from the area.
“I would urge any members of the public who saw anyone or anything suspicious around the times in question to please get in touch if you think your information could help.
“We take rural crime extremely seriously as part of our day-to-day policing in the North-east and I can assure the local and rural communities that crimes of this nature will not be tolerated.
“We are lucky to live in a relatively safe and crime-free region, however given this recent incident I would urge people to be extra vigilant and take measures and precautions to protect your property.
“We take every opportunity to share knowledge and information with officers across the force area to minimise and prevent the number of crimes that take place.”
In February, sheep rustlers stole almost 100 sheep worth just under £13,000 in a farm near Falkirk, Scotland.
Anyone with information can contact police on 101 quoting incident number 0968 of 05/04 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 in confidence.
