Caution urged as police hunt caravan thief

Police are asking people to be aware of a man attempting to steal caravans in the Monbulk area, driving a white four wheel drive. 124068 Pictures: VICTORIA POLICE

By JESSE GRAHAM

CARAVAN owners are being urged to watch out for a serial caravan thief, who attempted to make off with two caravans in Monbulk.
Police are asking for people with information to come forward, after a man stole a caravan in Patterson Lakes on Thursday 10 July.
The man, who is believed to be driving a white four-wheel drive with a tray, attempted to steal a caravan in Old Emerald Road in Monbulk on 30 June.
The owner of the caravan arrived at her home to find the man with the caravan attached to his car, but managed to prevent him stealing it.
Victoria Police spokesperson Leonie Johnson said police believe the same man also sized up a caravan in Fairydale Road in Monbulk on the same day.
The man is believed to have made arrangements to inspect a caravan for sale at 6pm on the night, but did not show up.
He then arrived at 9pm, and told the owner he was testing whether he could hook the caravan on to his car.
“The caravan owner told the man to leave, which he did,” Ms Johnson said.
Police believe that all three incidents are linked, though the theft in Patterson Lakes last week appears to be the first successful theft.
The man’s vehicle bears number plates stolen from a vehicle at Rowville Golf Course on 30 June.
He is believed to be bald, but has been known to wear a number of hair pieces, including a reggae-style beanie with dreadlocks, and a wig with straight brown hair.
Victoria Police has urged caravan park staff, holiday makers and caravan owners to be aware of suspicious behaviour, and to look out for the stolen caravan.
The stolen caravan is a 2013 Jayco Sterling, with the registration number V70482, and a large “Do not Overtake” sticker under the rear window.
People with information can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or can report information confidentially at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.