Police inquiries underway as jewellery and paintings taken in house raids

Jewellery and paintings have been stolen in two high-value house break-ins in the east of Scotland.

The first incident happened at a property in Belwood Road, Penicuik, Midlothian, on Tuesday between 12.15pm and 6.15pm.

A large quantity of jewellery - including cufflinks, necklaces, pendants, earrings, bracelets, broaches and watches - were stolen, believed to be worth about £30,000.

Constable Scott Clark, from the proactive unit, said: As you can imagine, the victim is utterly devastated at the theft of these pieces of jewellery, which hold significant financial and sentimental value.

As part of our inquiries, we would urge anyone who remembers seeing any suspicious activity around Martyrs Cross on Tuesday afternoon or evening to contact police immediately.''

In a separate incident in East Lothian, several artworks, including a high-value oil painting, were stolen from Kippielaw Farm near East Linton.

The work - entitled The Piper to the 2nd Marquess of Breadalbane - by JM Barclay dates from 1842 and is a 33 x 22'' oil on canvas valued at £10,000.

Four other paintings in a black and gold Asian style design were also taken in the incident between 5pm on April 15 and 2.45pm on April 24.

Police have asked anyone with information to come forward.

Community Inspector Andrew Hill, from Haddington police station, said: Based upon the specific nature of the property taken, it is likely that this is a targeted theft. A vehicle would have been involved.

The paintings stolen are all originals and very distinctive.

Crimes such as this are fortunately rare, however, apart from the financial loss to the owner, they also involve a loss of history and heritage.''