The M25 cat killer has struck again after a cat was found mutilated in Potters Bar.

Hertfordshire Constabulary are investigating the death of a domestic shorthair cat named Taz, who was found on October 23 by his owner in her garden in Cranborne Road, Potters Bar, after it had been mutilated.

The animal had been missing since October 17 and had several wounds, and a post mortem is being carried out to work out how the wounds were inflicted.

Inspector Pete Edwards, from the Potters Bar Safer Neighbourhood Team, confirmed they are linking Taz's death to a series of similar killings across the southeast being investigated by police and South Norwood Animal Rescue and Liberty (SNARL) under Operation Takahe, the culprit of which is being named the M25 cat killer.

Inspector Edwards said: "This incident has understandably caused great distress and upset to Taz’s owner and I want to reassure the people of Potters Bar and the wider community that we are taking this report very seriously.

"An investigation has now been launched and I am appealing for anyone with information to please come forward.

"Were you in the area and witnessed someone behaving strangely, perhaps attempting to coax a cat towards them?"

Anyone with information is asked to contact Hertfordshire Constabulary on 101, quoting crime reference J3/17/1491, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.