Suspicious behaviour and a rise in thefts of wool bales in South Otago has police on the lookout.
Detective Kate Bartlett, of Balclutha, said seven bales were stolen from a woolshed near Owaka between April 11 and 12.
Six were sold to a private buyer in Mosgiel, who informed police once he realised they were stolen.
Det Bartlett said the seller was described as being a well-spoken caucasian man in his mid-20s and clean shaven.
He was driving a white 2-door Toyota Hilux with wooden flat deck carrying a distinctive motocross trailer covered in a faded orange and silver canopy.
With him was a person wearing a hood, who remained in the vehicle during the transaction.
More people from the district had since came forward with information regarding similar experiences, Det Bartlett said.
In Owaka, a farmer said he was approached in his woolshed by a man wearing a balaclava some time between December and January.
"When he was disturbed by the farmer he offered a story that he was to pick up a wool press advertised online,'' Det Bartlett said.
This man drove a white Toyota Hilux with a trailer but it was believed to be a double-cab.
He removed his balaclava to speak, allowing the farmer to give police a description.
The man was caucasian, in his 30s and about 5ft 9'' tall. He had a distinctive circular tattoo on his neck.
There have been four reports of stolen wool in the Clutha District and three in the Southland
and Gore area since the start of this year.
A group of people were seen acting suspiciously in a white truck on March 2 at Old Coach Rd
around the time wool bales were stolen from a property there.
Det Bartlett said police were actively pursuing any investigations relating to the incidents.
They were appealing to the public for any information, particularly of any person who may fit descriptions given to police.
"Wool for a very long time had little value,''
Det Bartlett said for a very long time wool had little value. However, depending on its quality, the average wool bale could be worth about $600, while higher grade quality could fetch more.
She advised farmers to be vigilant around security and lock up any wool bales.
Buyers should identify all sellers and be wary of suspicious behaviour.
• Contact Balclutha police (03) 418-0203, Crimestoppers 0800-555-111.
