IT appears that no commodity is off limits when it comes to rural crime.
The latest theft reported includes seven Kelpie-cross Huntaway puppies from the Monaro region in southern NSW.
Monaro Rural Crime Investigators are investigating the theft of five dogs and two bitches from a farm in the Tinderry area near Michelago.
The theft occurred between 5pm and 9pm on December, 9.
The puppies are nine-weeks old, black and tan in colour, and most were awaiting collection to homes.
Police are appealing for information in relation to this theft, particularly in relation to any suspicious people or vehicles sighted on the Tinderry Road or in the Michelago area around the above time frame.
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NSW Farmers Wagga district branch chairman Alan Brown said it appeared that nothing was sacred when it comes to rural crime. He said the high value of livestock meant we were hearing of more thefts lately.
“Experience tells us that they (thieves) will take anything that is portable,” he said. Mr Brown said it was unfortunate that rural Australia was a target.
He said small thefts were occurring all of the time and landholders were working together to try and combat the issue.
Mr Brown said quality working dogs were worth a lot of money and it was unfortunate to hear of this case.
“(But) stealing working dogs is certainly a new low,” he said.
If you have any information please contact Monaro Rural Crime Detectives, Ned Doubleday 0429 596 435 or Archie French 0427 993 314.
You can also call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
This article first appeared in The Rural