Mini crimewave in Nairn

Police are investigating a mini-crimewave in Nairn.

The number of recent house break-ins and car thefts in the area rose to 13 this week. In two instances, cars were taken from outside their owners’ homes and in September, items including money, jewellery, clothing and a motorcycle were taken from inside and outside properties.

Inspector Murdoch MacLeod, commander for the Nairn area, said: “There have been a series of thefts from homes in the area in recent weeks which we are following active lines of enquiry in relation to.

“However, I would appeal to the public to take extra care in ensuring their homes and vehicles are properly secured as a preventative measure.”

In particular, police are appealing for witnesses following two car thefts in Nairn in the past week.

A silver grey Renault Modus, registration number NV08 JB0, was stolen from outside a house in Moss-side between 11am and 4.30pm last Friday, 1st November. Jewellery and cash were also taken from the house.

An indigo blue Landrover Discovery, registration number R777 0DY, was taken from outside a property in Househill between 11.30am and noon on Wednesday, 6th November.

Police are keen to speak to a man who was seen in the area around the time of the incident. He was in his early 20s, about 5ft 5ins with facial stubble and wearing a dark blue hooded top, woollen hat and white trainers.

Police are carrying out enquiries into both incidents, which they said could be linked.

Councillor Laurie Fraser, provost of Nairn, said: “It’s very unusual to have so many thefts in the Nairn area. Generally we have one of the lowest crime rates in Scotland. This kind of thing is obviously of concern and we don’t want it to get out of hand.

“I would just urge people to be vigilant and if they see anything suspicious, to report it to the police.”

Anyone with information is urged to call the police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.