Detectives believe one organised group may be responsible for a spate of high-value jewellery thefts in Perth and Kinross.
Since Christmas, a large number of properties across the county have been raided and Tayside Police has confirmed that at least half a dozen appear to be linked.
Over £30,000 worth of jewellery was taken from the six homes in Crieff, Kinross, Auchterarder and Madderty between January 6 and February 5. Stolen items include heirloom gold chains and wedding rings, diamond engagement rings, broaches and designer watches.
The force has launched a major intelligence operation in a bid to trace the culprits, who may come from outwith the area.
Detective Sergeant Graham Lee said the local community holds the key to bringing those responsible to justice. He urged householders to be vigilant and to notify the police if they spot anything or anyone suspicious.
The six thefts all took place between 9am and 5pm, when many people are out at work. Reports of cold-callers in the affected area are being looked in to as it is believed that criminals may be using this tactic to identify empty houses.
DS Lee confirmed: ”There have been six break-ins to properties in south Perthshire and Kinross which we are linking because of a number of similarities. In these incidents alone, more than £30,000 worth of items were taken.
”We have a team working hard to trace those responsible and we are determined to get a result.”
He continued: ”Local residents are really key to this type of investigation. To achieve a breakthrough we need a homeowner or dog-walker who spots someone they don’t recognise and reports it. It is useful to take down an individual’s appearance and their registration number.
”Obviously most people are completely innocent but we would rather investigate than miss an opportunity. In particular, if anyone comes to your door unexpectedly, let us know. Thieves sometimes use unsolicited cold-calling to identify empty homes.
”Never let anyone in your home until you are certain of who they are, or who they claim to represent. People must be vigilant. It is members of the local community who are most likely to spot someone suspicious.”
DS Lee said the ”rocketing” price of gold could be one reason criminals are turning to looting.
”The value of gold has gone through the roof so it has become a very valuable commodity,” he explained. ”It is also very easy to dispose of these days, as a number of companies will accept items by post.
”All someone has to do is enclose jewellery in an envelope and pay for postage and a few days later they will receive a cheque. Though this technique makes it slightly more difficult to trace items, we endeavour to do all we can and would urge any firms who receive a suspicious package to notify the authorities.
”If they have reason to believe they have received stolen goods, they are obliged to contact the police.”
The force has also asked people to keep an eye out for elderly or vulnerable neighbours.
DS Lee said: ”Though there has been a rise in the number of break-ins in the Perth and Kinross area over the past month, it is important to remember that the region is still one of the safest in Scotland.”