SOMETHING of a mystery surrounds a reported theft of dogs being investigated by police – but which a local councillor who had expressed her concerns believes may have been a hoax.

Residents in the Orsett and Horndon areas were alerted on social media to be aware of a theft of animals from a local kennels, with ward councillor Sue Little among those sharing the news.

However, she later said she had been told that the incident was a hoax and the theft hadn't happened.

This appears to be news to police who today (Saturday, 14 August) have confirmed their investigation is ongoing and they have issued a plea for anyone with information to come forward.

A statement from the force says: "We were contacted on Wednesday, 11 August with reports that 20 dogs had been stolen from kennels in Robinson Road, Horndon on the Hill, sometime between 5.30pm on Tuesday 10 August and 10am the following day.

"The dogs were described as elderly rescue dogs, including lurchers, terriers, a Jack Russell, a Shiba Inu, pugs, a bichon frise, chihuahuas, a poodle, a Yorkshire terrier, a cane courser, and a whippet crossbreed.

"We are carrying out enquiries into the circumstances behind the incident, including reviewing CCTV and speaking to local residents.

"Our priority is the welfare of the dogs and to ensure they are found and are safe.

"We'd like to hear from anyone who has information or was in the area at the time and may have seen anything suspicious.

Contact Grays CID quoting reference 42/164546/21. You can submit a report online via this link where you can use the 'Live Chat' button to speak to an online operator between 7am and 11pm. Alternatively, you can call 101.

Information can also be given to independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.