Thieves have raided a north-east coastguard station.
Banff Coastguard reported the break-in on Wednesday, after it became clear someone had been inside their base at Battery Green that afternoon.
At this stage, however, nothing is thought to have been taken although damage was caused to the property.
The station’s volunteers are now appealing for help in tracking down the people responsible.
Yesterday, station officer Kevin Finnie said he was “disappointed” by the incident, but said he could not comment further.
Local police are also making inquiries about the break-in, which happened between 3.45pm and 4.30pm.
Members of the public who may have seen anything between that time near the station are urged to call police on 101.
Constable Benedict Williams branded the local coastguard as “vital” for the port.
He said: “The coastguard have one of the most vital roles in the search and rescue of persons both at sea and those on the cliffs or shoreline around the UK.
“For a coastal town like Banff this service can mean life or death for those in distress.
“I would appeal to the conscience of any person with information about this incident to get in touch.”
The break-in follows a similar incident in Fraserburgh last month, when a new laptop was stolen from the coastguard station there.
The theft prompted a massive outpouring of support for the volunteers which raised hundreds of pounds to replace the stolen computer.
Last night, a spokesman for the Fraserburgh station said they were “sickened” to hear of the break-in.
“Cannot believe why people would want to carry out this low act on an emergency service,” he added.
“Let’s hope whoever is carrying these break ins out are caught and dealt with appropriately.”
Information on the break-in can also be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.