Two women were attacked and had crossbreed American Bully dogs stolen in a Scots village.
The first woman was attacked by a man and a dog was snatched from an address off A832 at Gairloch, in the Highlands at around 7.10pm on Monday.
A second woman was attacked while walking another American Bully on an unnamed road close to the entrance to Gairloch Harbour shortly afterwards.
Two men involved then drove off from the area in a white Volkswagen Golf GTI.
Police believe the incidents were targeted and the criminals wanted these two particular dogs, both of which reside at the same property.
The car was later found abandoned on Achany Place in Dingwall during the Monday evening and one of the dogs was recovered a short distance away. The other remains missing.
Police are appealing for information following the terrifying incident.
One of the men is described as being white, in his 20s with short light brown hair and wearing a black jumper and black shorts.
The other is described as being white, in his 20s with short brown hair and a slim build.
Detective Inspector Ross Hamill said: “Neither woman suffered any serious injuries during this incident, though they were both left extremely shaken.
“Our enquiries are ongoing and I would urge anyone who may be able to help to come forward. Our investigation is at an early stage but it appears this was targeted attack aimed at stealing these dogs and not a random incident.
“The vehicle is believed to have been driven on the A832 and A835 before it was abandoned in Dingwall so if you have any dashcam footage from the road on Monday evening then please get in touch.
“Anyone with information can call 101, quoting incident 3101 of August 30, or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - Sign up to our daily newsletter here.
