POLICE are cracking down on farm crime after a series of thefts across Victoria's Western Region.
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Farm Crime coordinator Inspector Karl Curran said police had received 17 reports of livestock stolen between November and February in the Western Region.
He said up to 60 sheep were taken at a time in most cases.
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"We believe that offenders are using utilities, stock trailers or small trucks with stock crates which would not look out of place in these rural areas," Inspector Curran said.
"There is often no sign of damage to gates or fences, meaning farmers may not have reason to suspect any sheep are missing so it is often some time before the theft is discovered and reported to police."
Inspector Curran said the thefts had mainly been within a 200 kilometre radius of Horsham.
He said it was important farmers reported all incidents to police for investigation, even if they didn't know when it occurred.
"When reporting a theft, provide as much detail as possible - average weight, age, markings, tags, tails (if any), micron measurements, length of wool, the breed of sheep and if they are cross bred or pure bred," Inspector Curran said.
"Any information you can provide will make a difference."
Inspector Curran also urged farmers to closely monitor their fuel storage levels, and report discrepancies to their local police station.
He said farms were often targeted by thieves looking to steal large amounts of fuel or diesel.
With Crime Stoppers Victoria and the Victorian Farmers Federation, Victoria Police has begun a 'Locals Get Vocal' campaign.
It aims to draw attention to the issues farming communities face when their livelihoods are threatened by thieves.
Anyone needing immediate police assistance should call Triple Zero (000).
Anyone with information about farm thefts should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or make a confidential report online at crimestoppersvic.com.au.
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