Victorian police are seeking public assistance in locating 1,115 sheep stolen from a Lexton farm, marking the third incident of livestock theft at this site within two years. In total, over 1,700 sheep have been unlawfully taken, resulting in a loss of approximately $175,000 for the farmer. Authorities view these thefts as part of a deliberate and coordinated series of crimes.
The most recent theft is believed to have occurred between late February and late March, involving the loss of mainly unshorn Merino sheep, all equipped with electronic ear tags, valued at around $130,000. Police indicate that the operation was meticulously planned, suggesting the thieves used large livestock transport vehicles to facilitate the movement of such a significant number of animals.
Detective Senior Constable Greg Broom highlighted the sophistication of the theft, stating, “This was not a random act – we believe this was a carefully coordinated theft that has left a local farmer significantly out of pocket.” The execution of this crime necessitated substantial forethought, as well as specialised knowledge of how to manage livestock.
Prior thefts occurred between July and September 2022 and again in early November of the same year. Investigators suspect that the same individuals may be linked to all three thefts. As such, law enforcement is urging anyone with information regarding these incidents or observed suspicious activities in the Lexton area during the relevant timeframe to come forward.
Police are particularly interested in leads regarding unusual vehicle sightings, livestock movements, or any sudden increased holdings of fine wool Merino sheep in the area. They are also on the lookout for sales of fine Merino wool by unfamiliar producers, irregular behaviour involving the retagging of sheep, large purchases of electronic ear tags, or livestock consignments that do not match a vendor’s typical stock profile. Furthermore, inquiries into leasing of pastoral land for sheep agistment might provide insight into the ongoing thefts.