Police in Tayside have arrested and charged three men in connection with the theft of quad bikes at rural homes and farms throughout the Perth and Kinross area.
They were remanded in custody after appearing at Perth Sheriff Court charged with theft and other road traffic offences.
Detective Inspector Tom Leonard of Perth and Kinross CID said: “Over the last two months we have unfortunately seen a marked increase in crimes of dishonesty committed in the rural areas of Perth and Kinross.
“Police Scotland recognises the significant impact that crimes of this nature have on local businesses and the livelihoods of those living and working in our rural communities and we are determined to identify and prosecute those responsible.
“The local community should be assured that our efforts to tackle this form of criminality will not stop and we will continue to work with our partners through initiatives such as the Community Watch scheme to first of all, prevent crime and when a crime is committed, to ensure the circumstances are brought before the courts.
“I would ask that members of the public assist us by ensuring that their property is secure and they continue to report any suspicious activity.”
Sergeant Amanda Nicolson, Community Co-ordinator Strathearn, Strathallan, Kinross-shire, Almond and Earn added: “We would also encourage those living and working in Perth and Kinross to sign up to Community Watch which is a local messaging service which keeps local residents informed about crimes in their area and provides security and safety advice.
“This web based service is also used by partner Community Safety organisations including Perth and Kinross Council to keep communities sighted on local community safety issues and incidents.
“Individuals can sign up to receive this service by visiting the web site at www.pkcommunitywatch.co.uk.”
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