Police are seeking public assistance following the theft of a Mitsubishi Triton in Stowport yesterday.

During the evening, police were conducting enquiries in relation to earlier reported incidents involving a stolen Toyota Landcruiser from Launceston and a stolen Jayco caravan from Somerset. The Toyota Landcruiser was observed in the Burnie area and an attempt to intercept this vehicle was made by police.

The vehicle evaded police by crossing a number of rural properties, causing damage to fences and gates in the West Mooreville area. The vehicle was then located abandoned in steep terrain in Romaine.

The Westpac Rescue Helicopter was deployed to the area to assist with searching for offenders in the area.

It is alleged the people responsible have later attended an address in the Stowport area where a white dual cab 2015 Mitsubishi Triton utility, registration number E04VX was stolen.

This vehicle was observed just after midnight in the Burnie area, however avoided interception by police. It was last observed travelling south on the Ridgley Highway.

Sergeant Andrew Smith from Burnie Police said:

“It is believed the vehicle has some damage to the front passenger side and may be now displaying false number plates.”

“Police believe the Jayco caravan may be stored within the Ridgley, Stowport or Highclere area and it may be possible that other fences and gates have been damaged during last night’s incident.”

Police are encouraging rural property owners in the area to check their fencing and report any incidents of damage or suspicious behaviour to police. Investigations are continuing today.

Police are also seeking public assistance in locating this vehicle and would ask that if located, members of the public do not approach the vehicle but contact police.

Information can be provided to Burnie Police on 131 444 or can be reported anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppers.com.au