‘Remove cable ties’ if you fear they are a sign left by dog thieves
CONCERNS THEY ARE USED AS MARKERS TO INDICATE PETS WORTH STEALING NEARBY
POLICE have advised people to remove cable ties from lampposts in their area in response to reports they are signals to help dog thieves.
Officers gave out the advice after lots of people on social media reported seeing cable ties around lampposts in Leicestershire.
While they could have a more innocent reason for being on lampposts, the suggestion that the ties could be a signal to dog thieves that there may be a pet worth taking in a nearby house has gained traction on social media.
An officer posted on the team’s official website: “We’ve had a lot of messages recently about dog theft. People are concerned that cable ties on lampposts may be there for a sinister purpose to identify target houses.
“In order to stop people being concerned, please feel free to remove them from your locality when passing.
“We have had no reports of dog thefts in this area. Let’s keep it that way.”
The RSPCA has warned that thieves are taking orders from would-be dogowners before scouring the streets for matches as demand for pets soars during lockdown.
The animal welfare charity urged owners to take extra care of their pets following a recent series of thefts. In the past week, it has been reported on three separate incidents in the city and county involving the disappearance of more than 10 animals.
The officer said: “Dogs seem an emotive subject so please use this as an opportunity to do the following – consider a decent doorbell camera and CCTV.
“Send your details to the team so we can get you on Neighbourhood Link and keep you in the loop with relevant local updates.”
The rise in dog thefts is a growing problem nationally, resulting in calls by the public and dog charities on the government to take further action to address the issue, including the introduction of harsher punishments.
People are concerned that cable ties on lampposts may be there for a sinister purpose
Police officer