About 100 Merino sheep, worth $25,000, have been stolen from a property earlier this year.
Benalla police said the theft occurred from a property in the Barjag district – between Benalla and Mansfield – between January and late April, but are not disclosing the exact property location or the precise time frame while the investigation remains active.
Officers conducted their own inquiries before going public with an appeal for information this week.
Police described the incident as isolated, saying livestock theft is uncommon in the area and this case is not linked to a broader pattern of rural crime in the region.
Only livestock were taken from the property.
Saleyards have been audited and notified, and Agriculture Victoria is assisting with inquiries.
Anyone who noticed suspicious activity, unusual stock movements, or unfamiliar vehicles in the Barjarg area during that period is asked to contact Benalla Crime Investigation Unit on 5760 0200 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
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