THREE "sickening" break-ins at care homes in the Highlands over the weekend are believed to be linked, according to police.
Four men, dressed in dark clothing, entered the Isobel Fraser Care Home in Mayfield Road, Inverness, through a window at around 10.30pm on Friday.
They stole cash and items belonging to the residents.
Police Scotland received a report at around 12.40am on Saturday that Meallmore Lodge near Daviot had been broken into. Items and money belonging to the residents were stolen.
A third break-in occurred at the Wade Centre in Spey Street, Kingussie, at around 3am on Saturday.
Two men, dressed in dark clothing, were spotted near the premises. Items belonging to the residents and money were stolen.
Detective Constable Graham Gordon said: "It's imperative we trace the people responsible for these crimes.
"We will continue to review CCTV footage from the premises for any additional information which could assist our investigation.
"To steal precious jewellery and items from elderly people, with no thought for the impact it will have on them, is sickening."
He added: "Many of these items will have been in their possession for several years, perhaps belonging to their loved ones who are no longer here.
"Clearly, those responsible only care for themselves and whatever they can get.
"Although, I'm sure if it was their mother, father or grandparents, they would think differently.
"I am appealing to members of the public for any information regarding these incidents or anyone who has information on those responsible to please contact us."
No-one was injured in any of the incidents but "irreplaceable" items of "great sentimental value" were stolen, according to officers.
Police believe a blue Audi was spotted. They have appealed for anyone who was driving in the areas targeted or were on the A9 between Inverness and Kingussie during this period to check dashcam footage for anything that could assist the investigation.
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