Boats moored at Buckie Harbour have become the latest targets of thieves who broke into several vessels and removed essential marine safety equipment.
Equipment including GPS navigation systems were removed from five small fishing boats at the harbour at some point between 11.30am on Sunday and 9.30am on Monday morning.
Police say that anyone who is offered marine equipment in the area should be aware of the theft and contact them immediately.
Investigating officer is PC Morag Lawrence, who said: “I am keen to hear from members of the public who may have seen anyone acting suspiciously in the vicinity of the harbour around the time of these thefts.
“I would appeal to any person who has been offered marine equipment for sale and thinks it may be related to this theft to contact us immediately.”
Local councillor Gordon Cowie said incidents of this nature were “incredibly rare” at Buckie Harbour, adding: “We did have a case of lobsters being stolen off the same boats last year – but these thefts remain very unusual.
“We must catch whoever has done this and help the police, who are appealing for anyone who might know or who saw anything.
“This is safety equipment after all and the boats need these things to get to sea – it is very sad that thieves can take away the equipment they rely on.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact the police on 101 or via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.