Police are warning pet owners to remain vigilant after a man tried to steal two dogs from their owner in Dunfermline.
The woman was walking the animals between Fillan Street and Serf Avenue at around 8.30am on Monday, March, 22, when she was approached by the suspect.
He attempted to take the leads from her hands but made off empty handed after she refused to let go.
The man, who is described as being in his late 20s, around 6ft tall and of a slim build, was then seen getting into a rusty white Transit van which was parked nearby.
The shocking incident was reported to Police Scotland who are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.
A statement from the force said: “Police in Dunfermline are appealing for witnesses following a report of a man attempting to steal two dogs.
“The owner of the dogs was walking between Fillan Street and Serf Avenue, Dunfermline around 8.30am this morning, Monday, 22 March, when she was approached by a man who then attempted to remove the leads from her dogs, in what can only be viewed as an attempted theft.
“The man responsible made off empty handed and was seen to enter a white coloured Ford Transit van parked nearby.
“The vehicle is further described as being visibly rusty suggesting it may be an older vehicle. “The suspect is described as being white, in his late 20's around 6ft tall and of slim build, had dark coloured hair and was wearing a black hooded top and a black mask.
“Any member of the public with information is requested to contact Police via 101, quoting incident number 0849 of Monday, 22 March, 2021.
“Alternatively Crimestoppers can be contacted on 0800 555 111 where information can be given in confidence.
“Dog owners in the area should remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity, unwanted approaches or similar incidents to police without undue delay.”
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