Police appeal as sheep rustlers snatch 134 ewes

Livestock disappeared from Braes of Doune over 10-month period

Police are hunting sheep rustlers who stole more than 130 ewes from a Perthshire farm.

The livestock snatched from a site at Braes of Doune, near Comrie, is worth nearly £10,000.

The 134 sheep disappeared over a 10-month period, between September last year and June.

Police believe the sheep, which have unique ear clips, may have been sold on.

A force spokesman said: “It is appreciated that this is a long period of time and the area of farmland is extensive, so it is unlikely that anyone may have actually witnessed any of the thefts.

“However, it is possible that members of the farming and rural communities may have come across some of the animals being offered for sale.”

The sheep are blackface ewes and hoggs, all with EID identification chips in their ear tags, which are marked with the number UK0543847.

All the sheep have ear clips of a half moon shape at the front top of both ears, which is unique to their home farm.

NFU Scotland president Andrew McCornick said that figures to be released next week “will highlight that rural crime, including rustling, still costs those who live and work in the countryside millions each year.”

He said: “The theft of sheep in such numbers not only has an immediate financial cost but can often rob farmers of generations of valuable breeding in their flocks and that cannot be replaced.

“Crucially, this type of crime and theft must involve transport. For those who live and work in the country, the police are crystal clear that they want people to be vigilant and report suspicious vehicles and activity.

“Calling the 101 number with the vehicle registration lets the police decide if that lorry, van or car has a valid reason to be at that place.”

Local MSP Liz Smith said: “This is a truly shocking crime that demonstrates a level of organisation and planning not often seen.

“The loss of so many animals is more than financial for the farm as they will have spent years breeding and improving their flock.”

She added: “Rural crime is increasing at an alarming rate and current policing methods are clearly failing to deal with this.

“Organised gangs are targeting rural areas believing them to be easy pickings and it is important that both the Scottish Government and Police Scotland outline strategies to combat this.”

Any witnesses are urged to call Tayside Division on 101, quoting case number CR/20879/17, or phone Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Picture: PA. Members of the farming and rural communities may have come across some of the animals being offered for sale.