Can ewe help detectives solve a Strathlea sheep theft?
Goldfields Crime Investigation Unit detectives are appealing for public assistance after $12,000 worth of merino sheep were stolen from a Blaze Aid founder Kevin Butler’s property in Strathlea whilst he was attending the CFA protest in Melbourne on Tuesday, May 20.
Investigators have been told four men were witnessed herding the sheep into a light-blue coloured enclosed trailer at Browns Track, Strathlea, about 8.30am on Wednesday, May 21.
It is believed the suspects were ‘casing’ Mr Butler’s farm on Tuesday, including leaving bottles in trees as an indicator to their ‘crew of thieves’.
The trailer was being towed by an Iveco dual-rear-wheel white van, and the men were perceived to be of Middle Eastern appearance.
Images of a van and trailer, believed to be similar to those used in the offence, have been released, along with digital ‘photo fits’ in the hope that someone may be able to provide information to assist investigators with their enquiries.
Theft of stock is 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 the outer suburbs once stolen.
Investigators are confident someone in the community will be able to provide the information required to hold these offenders to account.
Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
