Police are predicting an increase in rural crime in Angus after receiving an anonymous tip-off.
It is believed that farming areas may be targeted over the next few days with police issuing warnings to rural dwellers to ensure they take all precautions necessary to guard against such crimes.
Thieves are expected to go after specific items such as quad bikes and red diesel.
Gail Beattie, police constable for Angus & Dundee, said it was important all practical measures were taken to avoid becoming a victim.
She said: “It’s a busy time of year but please take an extra few minutes and ensure all buildings are locked securely and make sure diesel tank locks are fitted.
“Also make sure quad bikes are locked securely within buildings and any security devices fitted.
“We would like to remind people of the importance of taking simple crime prevention measures during day and night and also of the role they can play in keeping an eye out for suspicious activity in their area.
“Locally in Angus we are involved in Community and Rural Watch which is partnership-led and provides the opportunity for residents to be kept up to date by email about local incidents, issues and crimes in their area.”
Several estates at Glenesk have suffered break-ins this month, after a number of legal predator control traps were targeted by vandals on local moors.
In early August, a shipping container situated close to a bridge rebuilding work site on a local estate was raided and hand tools stolen.
On the same evening, padlocks were cut on buildings at two farms although no items of value were removed.
The perpetrators are believed to have good knowledge of the Angus Glens as the thefts occurred up single track roads.
Neighbourhood Watch Scotland are encouraging people to sign up to the free Community and Rural Watch initiative, by visiting www.neighbourhoodwatchscotland.co.uk.
The recent rise in rural crime in the area is part of a UK-wide increase, resulting in a 20% jump in the first half of 2017.
Of all regions, the north-east of England was the worst affected area.
