Residents and shop keepers are being warned about two thieves who stole a china dog from an antique shop in Petersfield Lane, Gosfield.
Police have released CCTV images of the suspected thieves and are keen to speak to anyone with information about the theft.
PC Michelle Brown, said: "We believe this couple live locally and possibly in the Gosfield to Colchester strip in the north of the county as they were recently spotted acting suspiciously in a department store in Colchester.
"We think they are professional thieves so are warning retailers to be wary of them while at the same time asking people to contact us if they know who they are. We are hoping this will trigger someone's memory."
The man is described as white, 6ft tall, in his early-mid 40s, with short dark, greying hair, and a local accent. At the time he was wearing a leather jacket and heeled boots. The woman is described as white, is in her mid 40s, has shoulder-length dark brown hair and was wearing a three-quater-length quilted jacket.
Anyone with information is urged to contact investigating officers at Braintree police station on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously 0800 555111.
