Griffith LAC Rural Crime Detective Senior Constable Chris Wells has outlined specific issues facing the MIA region.

Some of the relevant concerns for the area include theft from regional properties, illegal hunting and trespassing.

“We have ongoing concerns reports of illegal hunting and trespassing in the Griffith LAC, especially near Rankin Springs, Naradhan and Hillston areas,” he said.

“We encourage landholders to keep regular contact with their neighbors to discuss unusual activity of vehicle sightings, which is a way of increasing local awareness and raising security measures in the area.”

He said there have also been reports of equipment theft in the MIA, and urges landowners to increase security with the basics.

“Locking sheds and gates and remaining vigilant ... fences chains and padlocks can be cut by determined thieves, but its an extra effort for offenders, and also provides viable indication of an incident to assist police in identifying a crime scene when investigating a matter.”

With the current market value, livestock theft is also a huge concern, and says keeping a thorough record of stock counts and timelines of theft dates and business records is hugely important.

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“It is recommended that all livestock are identified, and significant consideration should be given into branding cattle, as non-permanent markers such as ear tags can be easily removed.”

“If its not reported we can’t help, so its important that the local police are aware of all crime incidents ans suspicious activity, otherwise we can’t help.”

Police are also calling on licensed firearm owners to make sure their firearms are safely and securely stored.

New firearms safe storage requirements on September 1 involves a new requirement that firearms must be stored at the licensee’s primary residential premises.