A cat kidnapper could be on the prowl in Laindon, according to a concerned owner.

Olga Daley, 49, today warned other owners in Lee Chapel North to be vigilant, after one of her cats went missing.

Just days before this another one of her seven feline friends came home with a damaged tail.

Olga said: "I do not believe in coincidences and want to warn other people of what could be going on."

PC Brett Mercer, community liaison officer for Laindon police, said there had not been any other reports of cats going missing in the area, but urged anyone else having this problem to contact him.

Mum-of-three Olga, of Wickhay, fears her cats have been targeted as they look like pedigree breeds, even though they are not, having thick coats and bushy tails.

In the first incident last weekend Leo, a grey tabby, came home late at night with his tail hanging down towards the floor.

Olga said: "It looked like someone had pulled on it really hard."

Then just two days later Leo's brother Simba, a ginger tabby, disappeared and has not been seen since.

Olga said her cats are not prone to wandering off. She added that Simba's disappearance has really upset daughters Lisa, 18, Charlotte, 14, and Madeleine, 11.

Anyone with information about this incident or who has had a similar problem should call PC Mercer on 01268 410101.

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