Detectives have launched an urgent appeal after thieves forced their way into a Kent farm property and abducted two cherished dogs under the cover of darkness.
The brazen raid occurred between 8.30pm and midnight on Tuesday 11 August, when intruders targetted an agricultural barn off Penn Lane in the quiet village of Ide Hill, near Sevenoaks. After breaking into the building, the culprits made off with two spaniels, leaving their frantic owners desperate for answers.
The stolen dogs have been identified as Nelly, a liver and white springer spaniel, and Betty, a black cocker spaniel. Kent Police are now treating the raid as a priority investigation and are urging local residents to check security systems.
Officers are appealing to anyone who was in the Ide Hill area during the late-night hours and may have noticed suspicious individuals, unusual movements, or unfamiliar vehicles parked nearby. Investigators are particularly keen to gather CCTV footage, doorbell video, or dashcam recordings taken in and around Penn Lane around the time of the break-in.
Anyone with information that could assist in tracking down Nelly and Betty is urged to contact Kent Police immediately on 01622 604100, quoting crime reference number 46/132411/26. Alternatively, anonymous tips can be submitted to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or via their online reporting form.