Police have reiterated an appeal for information about an incident in Invergordon which a man suffered multiple injuries.
Mystery surrounds the circumstances which left the victim, who has not been named, in a serious condition at Raigmore Hospital in Inverness.
It is understood that the man, who is in his 40s, sustained stab wounds, among other injuries during the incident at a flat in High Street on Tuesday night.
Officers are carrying out a significant inquiry but have again appealed to the public for help.
A larger than normal police presence is being maintained in the town to reassure the public.
Police have said that the man’s injuries suggest “he was the victim of a criminal act”.
Officers were called to the property before midday on Tuesday after reports of a disturbance.
The man was found injured inside the flat and taken to Raigmore by ambulance.
A scenes of crime tent was erected on the pavement outside the flat on Tuesday while they examined the property.
North Highland area commander Chief Inspector Iain MacLelland said that officers will remain in the area for several days as part of efforts to ascertain what happened.
Police said that contrary to reports, the flat was not occupied by two serving police officers.