Police seek help to find opal thief

Detectives from Melbourne Crime Investigation Unit are appealing for public assistance to identify two men following a major theft from a jewellery store in Melbourne’s CBD on Christmas Eve.

Police believe two men attempted to break into a jewellery store on Swanston Street using a crow bar to jemmy open the front door about 3am on 24 December.

After several failed attempts, the pair left the area.

Investigators believe about an hour later, one of the two offenders returned wearing a high visibility reflective orange long sleeve top and managed to jemmy open the door.

Once inside, the offender ransacked the shop, stealing a quantity of opals and jewellery valued at $250,000.

The man who stole the opals and jewellery is perceived as of Caucasian appearance, less than 180cm tall, thin build, around 40 to 50 years-old, wearing a high viz top and a distinctive wedding band.

The other man is perceived as Middle Eastern in appearance, 180cm tall, with a thin build and 40 to 50 years old.

Investigators have released images and CCTV of the men they believe can assist with their enquiries.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or file a confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

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