Plaited main could be sign that animal was ‘marked’ for theft.

Police believe horses could be being marked out for theft.

A warning to be vigilant has been issued to owners after a horse, which was loose in a field, had its mane plaited.

“This was done without consent and there is a concern that there might be a hidden message and the animal may have been marked to steal at a later date,” said a police spokesman.

The incident was reported on January 11 and a piece of twine was found tied to the field gate.

Horse owners are being urged to check their animals on a regular basis and to report anything suspicious to police on 101.