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Police have arrested a man in connection with a number of cat deaths in Northampton, which were being linked to the Croydon Cat Killer.

Five cats were mutilated and killed in Northampton between August and November 2017.

A 31-year-old man was arrested in connection with cat mutilations and arsons in the Duston and Kingsley Park areas of Northampton.

The man has been released under investigation.

In December, Northamptonshire Police said the five cat deaths were being treated as part of Operation Tahake - the Metropolitan Police Service's (Met) investigation into the so called Croydon Cat Killer.

The Met said it is "aware" of the arrest and that its own investigation is continuing.

The Croydon Cat Killer, who mutilates and displays the victims, is believed to be responsible for more than 400 attacks since October 2015, many of which have occurred in Croydon.

Ever since the deaths of animals showing the same recognisable injuries - a clean wound made by a bladed object - have been linked to this case.

As the deaths of other animals - rabbits, foxes, deer and even a squirrel - all over the country have also been linked to the case the killer has also become known as the M25 Cat Killer and the UK Animal Killer.

South Norwood Animal Rescue and Liberty (SNARL), an animal rescue organisation, is working with the Met on the case.

It is believed that the killer may have links to Addiscombe, as that is where many of the first decapitated cats were found.

A £10,000 reward if being offered by Peta and Outpaced for information leading to the arrest and conviction of a suspect.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Metropolitan Police on 101, the RSPCA on 0300 123 8018 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.