A two-figure sum of cash has been stolen in a robbery at he Scotmid store in Burghead.
The incident took place at the Brander Street premises just before 7pm on Friday.
Officers taped off the store and were not allowing public access while they carried out their investigation.
They confirmed an attempted robbery also took place just an hour later at a premises on Fleurs Place in Forres.
There are no reports of any injuries.
Appeal for witnesses of Burghead Scotmid robbery
Police are now appealing to the public for any relevant information about both incidents which are believed to be linked.
They are searching for a male suspect who is described as being about 6ft tall and of medium build.
He was wearing a black jacket, a black face mask, jeans and grey trainers.
Detective Sergeant Robert Williams said: “Our inquiries are ongoing and we believe at this time that these incidents are linked.
“We are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed either of the incidents, or has information, to get in touch.
“We also ask anyone with private CCTV or drivers with dashcam footage of the areas at the time to contact us.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 quoting incident number 3132 for the robbery on Brander Street and incident number 3442 for the attempted robbery on Fleurs Place, both of December 22.
Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111
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