Police in Kinross-shire are searching for a man seen acting in a suspicious manner in and around Crook of Devon since the start of the year.
Locals have made a number of reports over the past few days, with a number of apparent sightings in and around Crook of Devon often in the evening.
Police Scotland has moved to reassure the public that there have been “no reports of criminality in the area”.
Local officers are nonetheless keen to trace the man as a matter of urgency, with lines of inquiry thought to be that he may be sleeping rough or be a missing person from another area.
If so, they are concerned that the man may be in need of support or accommodation.
Residents have apparently told the police that they do not recognise the man.For more on this story see Saturday’s CourierA Police Scotland spokeswoman said: “Officers are making enquiries following reports regarding a man who has been walking and lingering in a suspicious manner within a field next to St Serfs Place, Crook of Devon.
“There have been concerns raised for the man, who has been seen on around five occasions since Saturday, January 3.
“The area is popular with local dog walkers, but the man appears not to be known to those residents.”
The man is described as being around six foot, with short brown hair and when last seen was wearing either a dark or grey reflective jacket.
He was carrying a large black rucksack and another bag.
The spokeswoman added: “We would reassure the public that there have been no reports of criminality in the area.
“Officers are, however, keen to trace this man to establish his identity and the full circumstances of the reported incidents.”
Anyone with information that could assist officers with their enquiries is asked to call Police Scotland on 101.