Thieves steal 5500 sheep worth $1.7m in heartless Qld outback heist

Livestock thieves are on the run after targeting struggling farmers and making off with about 5500 sheep worth more than $1.7m in a heartless Queensland heist.

Police allege the dorper ewes and rams were stolen from an outback property on Blackall-Isisford Rd between February and May this year.

Police are appealing for public help to track down the stolen sheep, urging anyone who spotted suspicious stock movements, livestock transport activity or unusual behaviour in the area to come forward.

Rural and Stock Crime Squad Detective Senior Sergeant Paul Elliot said the theft was a blow to the local farmers and broader community who are already under pressure.

“Livestock theft can result in substantial financial losses and place additional pressure on farming businesses already facing challenging conditions,” Sergeant Elliot said.

“Police estimate the value of the stolen Dorper sheep at more than $1.7m.

“Livestock theft investigations can be complex, often spanning large geographical areas, which is why we work closely with producers, saleyards, transport operators and industry stakeholders to identify offenders and disrupt criminal activity.”

The stolen stock are fitted with the White National Livestock Identification System tags.

Originally published as Thieves steal 5500 sheep worth $1.7m in heartless Qld outback heist