Burglars stole 11 snakes as well as 2,000 pints of beer in a raid on a Leeds pub.
The landlord of the Bull’s Head in Holbeck is said to have been left deeply upset after thieves got into the living accommodation above the pub and stole his beloved pet snakes as well as his stocks.
A 2.5ft royal python was taken along with ten orange and black Okeetee corn snakes, all in their tanks. Police have appealed to anyone offered one for sale.
Det Con Lisa Watts, of Holbeck CID, is investigating. She said: “The victim is understandably upset at having his beloved pet snakes stolen.
“They mean to a lot to him and I would appeal directly to anyone who saw the incident or who is offered a snake or any of the other items for sale to get in touch.”
The incident happened between 6pm last Sunday, August 5, and 6.40pm the following day.
The thieves broke into the Domestic Street premises before carrying their haul out onto some form of vehicle.
As well as the snakes, which are not poisonous, the burglars took 12 22-gallon kegs of beer – the equivalent of more than 2,100 pints.
They also stole a Bosch washing machine and a HP laptop computer.
Det Con Watts added: “The fact that the person or people responsible for this had to move large items means they must have had access to a vehicle.
“So if anyone saw a vehicle around the pub during the above hours then please get in touch.”
Any witnesses are asked to contact Det Con Watts on 101 or Crimestoppers, in confidence, on 0800 555111.