WIMMERA police say theft has become widespread concern in the region.
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Horsham's Detective Senior Sergeant Dave Ellis said police have noticed a prevalence of thefts in the past few months.
Detective Senior Sergeant Ellis said the recent thefts affected businesses in the central business district of Horsham, as well as, farm properties throughout the region.
While reports of thefts are common for smaller businesses, he said chain stores have been affected as well.
He said alcohol, cosmetics and consumer items are among the goods stolen.
"Theft is always there and will continue to be an issue for store holders, but the police have crime prevention officers who are able to advise owners on shop design and methods to reduce the risk of theft," he said.
Outside the Horsham CBD, farm crime has been identified by police as a significant problem where livestock, firearms, chemicals and equipment are stolen from properties.
Detective Senior Sergeant Ellis said the thefts could take up to four months to identify due to the nature of farming.
"It is difficult to identify those involved in the theft because the timeframe from the when the theft happened to when it's reported makes it hard to narrow down witnesses," he said.
"It is difficult, but not impossible."
Detective Senior Sergeant Ellis said people with suspicions of others involved in a theft should contact CrimeStoppers on 1800 333 000.
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