Northern Constabulary warn of horse 'plaiting'

Northern Constabulary are advising all those involved in the care of horses to take extra security measures following reports of 'plaiting'.

'Plaiting' is a method whereby a horse can be marked for theft. This is when one section of a horse's mane is roughly plaited indicating that it is tame enough to be caught and removed by a stranger.

A total of four incidents have been reported to Police in the last five weeks. These have mainly been in the Inverness and Ross-shire areas of the Highlands but Northern Constabulary are advising all those across the Highlands and Islands caring for horses to be extra vigilant with their security.

Members of the public are advised that if they see any unfamiliar vehicles or people near to horses to report this to their local Police Station or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.