A CCTV image of a 'suspect' has been released as police investigate the thefts of rabbits and guinea pigs from back gardens in Rochdale.
The M.E.N. has previously reported how dozens of much-loved pets have been stolen from houses over the past few months, leaving owners devastated.
As officers continue their investigation they have issued a CCTV image of a 'suspect' in their enquiry.
They also say it appears that thieves are specifically targeting homes with rabbits.
Police have appealed for further information as their probe continues.
"You may have seen posts prior to Christmas about a spate of rabbit thefts," said officers on the GMP Rochdale page.
"They are such as unusual series of offences that we still have a lot of unanswered questions.
"We have CCTV of a suspect in one offence but due to the time of night and facial covering it does not allow us to identify them.
"How would someone know that a house had rabbits in their garden?
"We have not seen an increase in other types of theft so it appears they are specifically targeting houses with rabbits.
"What would the motive be to steal rabbits, are they being sold on? If so how are rabbits sold on privately? Has anyone come across any rabbits being offered for sale and felt suspicious?
"Any other information about the person or people involved in these offences.
"If you have any information about the above then please email us RochdaleEast@gmp.police.uk."
Residents previously told the M.E.N. how as many as 20 animals have been stolen in similar circumstances, leaving children heartbroken to lose their treasured pets.
Most thefts are believed to have happened around Milnrow, Newhey, Kingsway, Spotland, Castleton, Moorland and Firgrove.
Follow us on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news. We are also on Instagram.
If you are on the go, the M.E.N. app helps bring you closer to the latest news where you live. Available on iPhone and Android, the app can be tailor-made to bring you the latest on what matters to you.
Breaking news, the latest on your football club, the pick of the week’s events and the latest travel - you can tailor the app to suit you. Our push notifications help highlight the biggest stories to you first.
