Police are appealing for more information after the theft of three cars in Ballater and Newburgh in the early hours of this morning.
The first theft is believed to have happened between 1am and 2am.
A white Ford Fiesta registration was stolen in the Hawthorn Grove area of Ballater.
Later, at about 5am a red/orange Land Rover, registration and a silver Volkswagen Passat – were stolen from the Main Street area of Newburgh.
The Volkswagen Passat was later recovered.
PC Lauren Tate, of the Ellon community policing team, said: “Enquiries have established that a white Ford Focus was seen to drop off two men near Main Street at the time of the later thefts.
“We ask that any members of the public who may have seen this vehicle, or have any information on any of the thefts, come forward and contact Police.
“I would also like to remind people to ensure that their homes and vehicles are locked and secure at night, even if you are home.”
Anyone with information should contact Police Scotland on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800555111.
Police appeal for information after spate of car thefts