They were branded as cold-blooded killers who were responsible for a series of vicious attacks.

Fearful residents on a Strood estate breathed a sigh of relief in the knowledge that two of the perpetrators were finally behind bars.

But it now seems that there may have been a miscarriage of justice and that the “Strood Two” have been framed, leaving the guilty free to roam and possibly even attack again.

The innocent parties were a pair of lurchers said to be part of a pack of three “wild dogs” caught on CCTV attacking cats in the Medway Gate and Darnley Road area.

Police and council officers carried out door-to-door inquiries to locate the dogs, after receiving information they were frequently seen loitering on land at the back of Diggerland.

A council spokesman said: “Although we are not certain they are the dogs responsible for attacks which saw cats killed, they do match the description and look like the animals captured on CCTV.”

Owners of some of the cats who were killed called for the dogs responsible to be put down.

But people took to social media in defence of the two apprehended animals, convinced of their innocence.

Unable to find any evidence of them having been involved in the attacks, or of them having an aggressive nature, the council has taken the decision to put the lurchers up for rehoming.

They are currently in the custody of Jasmil Kennels and Cattery.

Concerns have now been raised over what action is being taken to catch the real offenders.

Medway council and police will be responding to calls should the attacks continue.

A Medway Council spokeswoman said: “Anyone with any information about the owners of the dogs should contact either the police on 101 or the council on 01634 333333.

“If a dog is dangerously out of control it is a matter for the police.”

Video: The wild dogs roaming around a Strood estate

To report a suspected dangerous dog, call Kent Police on 101.

To report an ongoing incident involving an immediate risk of harm, call 999.