DISTRICT farmers have been urged to report suspected sheep thefts to police.
Wedderburn’s Sgt Ben Huisman said that if thefts went unreported, police were limited in their information and in investigating incidents.
“Every piece on information is important and should be reported,” he said.
His request comes as online farm theft  watch groups claim there have been incidents in the Inglewood district over the past fortnight and Goldfields Crime Investigation Unit detectives are appealing for assistance after $12,000 worth of merino sheep were stolen from a property in Strathlea, near Newstead. Polices have been told four men were seen herding the sheep into a light-blue coloured enclosed trailer at Browns Track about 8.30am on May 21.
The trailer was being towed by an Iveco dual rear wheel white van and the men were perceived to be of middle eastern appearance.
Police last Friday released digitally generated images of three of the men, based on witness’ descriptions.
Images of a van and trailer, believed to be similar to those used in the offence have also been released in the hope someone may be able to provide information to assist investigators with their enquiries.
Police said stock theft was a serious offence in regional Victoria, causing significant grief and costing thousands of dollars to hard-working farmers.
Detectives are investigating the possibility that stock is being transported to Melbourne or outer suburbs once stolen.
They say they are confident someone in the community will be able to provide the information required to hold these offenders to account.
Anyone who recognises the men pictured, vehicles used or has information concerning the stolen sheep is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.