Thieves that broke into a property in Beith last month are being linked to a nationwide series of raids on homes targeting 'Asian Gold'.

Police say that a number of of Asian homes across the central belt and the west of Scotland are being broken into and high-value gold and other expensive items being stolen.

Between 11-11.30pm on Saturday, August 21, a property on McMillan Crescent in Beith was broken into.

A five figure sum of cash and jewellery, including gold necklaces, rings and watches were taken.

It's believed that whoever broke into that property is responsible for a whole swathe of other housebreakings.

Between August 21-31, 14 incidents occurred in Beith, Bathgate, Stranraer, Cambuslang, Paisley, Stepps, East Kilbride and Glasgow.

The same car was spotted in each of those areas at the time of the housebreakings and so police have come to the conclusion that they are linked.

They're hunting down the driver of a gun-metal grey Cupra Ateca car, which was seen in all the locations.

Across the 14 incidents, the thieves have so far made off with Asian gold jewellery and watches, worth a combined total of £200,000.

Detective Sergeant Allan MacInnes from the Community Investigation Unit in Govan, said: “As a result of each of these incidents, the homeowners have been left devastated at the theft of their belongings and we are pursuing a number of lines of inquiry as we look to identify the culprits and trace the stolen items.

“We would ask that anyone who remembers seeing any suspicious activity in the affected areas between 21 and 31 August, or who can help us locate the grey Cupra Ateca and its occupants, contacts police immediately.

“In addition, anyone with any other information relevant to our ongoing investigation, should also get in touch.

“Preventing housebreaking and reducing the numbers of those affected by such crimes is a top priority for Police Scotland and the public have a vital role to play by ensuring their valuables are stored safely and out of sight and that all doors and windows are secured appropriately when left unoccupied.

“We would also recommend that those choosing to store significantly valuable items within their home invest in robust security measures such as safes, alarms and motion-activated lighting. In addition, where possible we encourage the use of safety deposit boxes out-with your home address, or if this is not a viable option, then please consider using a safe storage option, which is approved by your insurer.

“A range of useful crime prevention advice is available on our website by visiting www.scotland.police.uk.”