A mountain bike was stolen after thieves targeted a number of properties in an Aberdeenshire village yesterday morning.
Police are investigating the theft, and a series of subsequent attempted ones, which took place in Kemnay between 5am and 5.30am.
The incidents happened in Milton Drive and the surrounding streets.
Four properties were broken into, however the bike was later recovered in the village.
Last night officers said they were seeking a group of four men as part of the investigation, and urged locals to make sure their homes, sheds and vehicles were all secured.
Sergeant Gavin Grant said: “A group of four males were seen in the area, who may be able to assist us with our investigation and inquiries are ongoing to identify them.
“If anyone saw or heard anything suspicious in the Milton Drive area of Kemnay or surrounding streets, particularly around the hours of 5.00am-5.30am, I would urge then to get in contact with us as soon as possible.
“I would also like to remind the public of the importance of securing, cars, sheds, garages and their homes ,which has been shown to act as an effective deterrent. Just a simple turn of a key to lock your property will help ensure you are not the victim of this type of crime.
“Unfortunately, we see periodic instances of this type of crime throughout Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire.”