RAID: Police search a property in Tooles Road in Wodonga on Thursday after reports of stock theft. They removed 15 cattle from the farm. Picture: MARK JESSER

Thieves are removing tags and markings and selling the cattle online as high prices make the crime more lucrative. Senior Constable Travis Carroll said the practice was “definitely on the increase”.

Officers raided a Wodonga farm on Thursday and seized cattle allegedly taken from a neighbouring property.

A 75-year-old Wodonga man will be charged on summons. “It’s fairly lucrative for those who want to do the wrong thing,” Senior Constable Carroll said.

“But we’re more than adequately equipped with the technology and resources to investigate these matters. We will process people if they’re found offending and stealing livestock. There are specific offences in relation to the alteration of cattle brands and the removal of tags.”

DNA testing can be used to identify stolen livestock.

Senior Constable Carroll said farmers were often reluctant to report such thefts, but said they could be assured police would investigate. He urged farmers to be vigilant and report any thefts.

Victorian Farmers Federation Wangaratta branch president Greg Mirabella said thieves often targeted their neighbours.

“It’s a very unfortunate thing in a community when farmers are doing it tough already,” he said.

“It has a huge impact. With people paying about $1000 for calves, that’s a big investment.”

The story Stock theft spike as prices boom first appeared on Stock & Land.