Marton police are urging residents to report suspicious activity following allegations of thefts of dogs for dog fighting.
Discussion on social media last week centred around marks appearing on fences in Marton and Bulls. The markings were rumoured to mean the properties would be targeted for dog theft. No such thefts have been reported but police are still asking the public to be vigilant.
A Marton woman who did not want to be named said she noticed the markings on her fence when she returned home last Tuesday and had seen them on another nearby property.
"Apparently they mark your fence then they come back," she said.
She reported the markings to police. "They just said to keep everything locked up and to keep an eye out. It's not good, I'm paranoid as hell. It's just the thought of someone hanging around."
She said the marking on her fence was chalk but she had heard of spray paint used in other towns.
Constable Marty Downes said police were aware of widespread discussion on social media.
"There is a lot of rumour on social media forums on this subject and while there have been no reported thefts of dogs in the Marton area to police, we encourage local dog owners to be vigilant about the security of their animals," he said.
"All information reported to police will be analysed and inquiries will be made to ascertain whether there is any criminal intent."
Such stories have cropped up around New Zealand and overseas in the past and authorities have usually dismissed the idea. Police have asked anyone who sees suspicious behaviour to report it to the local police station or call 111 if it is happening at the time.