Thieves taking dogs from streets for ransom

DOGS are being snatched from families and ransoms of hundreds of euro then demanded for their safe return.

A number of dogs in Tralee, Co Kerry have been abducted in the past week. Their owners have been contacted by phone and asked for money for their return.

Gardaí are investigating if there is a more sinister element to the scam and if any of the pets will be harmed if no money is handed over.