Fears are growing that the so-called ‘Croydon cat killer’ has struck again after two animals were found dead within a mile of each other on Christmas day.

The bodies of the cats were found in south London and there are concerns they may have been deliberately killed by the notorious figure.

One cat was found in Wallington and a second in Carshalton.

An animal rescue charity that has been working with the police investigating the killings said the recent deaths are believed to be linked to the killer.

South Norwood Animal Rescue and Liberty (SNARL) said the Met had confirmed the death of the pet in Carshalton is being considered part of Operation Tahake – the investigation into the killings.

The death of the second cat is “possibly linked”.

The charity wrote on its Facebook page: “Two cats were found on Christmas Day, within a short distance of each other, one in SM5 1 and the other in SM6 7.

“The death of the cat in SM5 1 is confirmed as part of the Operation Takahe series, SM6 7 is under investigation as a suspicious death, possibly linked.

“Both families have no desire to have their locations or identities made public and we would ask residents who are aware of the incidents not to post road names on social media.

“We would like to thank officers from Surrey who went out yesterday and attended whilst we were out of London and also those who attended the incident reported today.

“Rest in peace little ones.”

The killer is thought to have attacked more than 400 animals since 2015.

The cases are linked by the manner in which the animals are mutilated and displayed, believed to be aimed at creating maximum shock and distress.

The attacks initially took place in and around Croydon, but there have since been similar style killings in other parts of the UK.

There is a £10,000 reward for information leading to the capture of the killer, or killers. Currently no arrests have been made.

