Extra patrols have been organised by police after three women were approached by men while walking alone in a Moray village.
Officers are trying to trace two men who were seen driving a white Subaru in Fochabers on Saturday evening.
One resident initially highlighted an incident which occurred between the River Spey and the cricket pitch on social media before others came forward with similar experiences.
Fochabers Lhanbryde Marc Macrae has encouraged locals to take extra precautions during the longer nights.
He said: “As a parent myself I am very concerned that these may not just be isolated incidents but part of a pattern with people targeting the village for whatever reason.
“My daughter is often walking back home from visiting friends and it is alarming that some of these incidents took place in the centre of the village.”
Police have revealed that the Subaru seen in the area had a 64 registration plate.
Inspector Kerry Rigg said: “We are aware that there’s been a certain amount of online speculation in the area following these reports and officers have been carrying out investigations this week.
“I want to reassure the community that there is nothing to suggest that these incidents are linked and, at this stage, no evidence of criminal intent. Local officers will be carrying out extra patrols in the area as a precaution.”
Anyone with information should call police on 101.
