Asian families have been targeted in more than a dozen break-ins in Aberdeen.

Valuables worth a total of more than £70,000 were taken during 14 raids in the city over the past six months.

Jewellery and cash were reported stolen and police said a dedicated team of detectives were hunting the thieves.

They want to trace a black Audi A3 suspected to have been involved and said they were liaising with other police divisions around the country.

Detective Inspector Fionnuala McPhail said: "While the last thing I want to do is cause any fear or alarm to people living in these particular communities, I must ask the public to be vigilant while our investigations continue.

"I must also stress that incidents of housebreakings across North East Division are at an all-time low with detection rates extremely high.

"However, as further incidents of this specific nature are being reported to us, and with a common theme of the items being stolen, it's crucial we make this appeal today to gather as much information as possible.

"People living in the Chinese community have predominantly reported incidents to the police, however other areas of the Asian community have also been affected.

"A dedicated team of CID officers has been carrying out extensive enquiries which includes liaising with other forces nationwide."

DI McPhail added: "We are following several positive lines of enquiry as a result of our investigations so far however I would still urge anyone with information to contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 if you would prefer to remain anonymous."