ANOTHER tortoise has been stolen in Dartford, sparking fears they are being targeted by a thief.

Melissa Wheeler’s seven-year-old tortoise Mini Me, of the rare African Leopard breed, was taken from the garden of her home in Highfield Road, Dartford, at around 4.15pm on Wednesday (July 7).

This follows the theft of three spur-thighed tortoises, which are also a rare breed, from 52-year-old Sue Holmes’ garden in Dorchester Close, Dartford, on June 17.

Mrs Wheeler, 32, said: “I am worried that someone in Dartford is targeting tortoises, and what’s really worrying is the thought they are watching people, because they know where to strike.”

Mrs Wheeler says Mini Me has respiratory problems and could become seriously ill if whoever has him does not clean him regularly to prevent him breathing in dust.

She said: “My daughter Emily, who is on four, is absolutely devastated that he’s been taken.”

If you have any information which can help, call Mrs Wheeler on 01322 221383.