BUSHFIELD residents have been warned to lock up their homes after an intruder scared a man asleep in his bed.
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Detective Senior Constable Richard Hughes, of the Warrnambool police Crime Investigation Unit, said the victim woke to noises in the kitchen of his Bellmans Road house about 4.50am Monday.
"The victim has called out, 'Hello, hello, hello' to which a male voice replied, 'Hey mate',” Detective Senior Constable Hughes said.
"The resident then states he has heard the kitchen door open. He went to the kitchen and dining area but did not see anyone."
The intruder left a sliding door to the kitchen open.
The resident contacted police and officers arrived soon after.
Detective Senior Constable Hughes said it appeared the intruder gained access to the house by removing a fly wire screen on a laundry window.
Clothing and a drill were removed from the house. The drill was later found in the yard and the clothes under a porch.
The detective said it appeared the intruder also gained access to a garage.
“It is believed that other Bellmans Road residents have also heard a prowler loitering around their homes recently,” he said.
Detective Senior Constable Hughes alleged the incident was linked to drugs.
“It is suspected that the offender is probably an ice addict looking for items of value to steal to fund a habit, so we would urge residents to lock up their valuables,” he said.
Anyone with information can call Crime Stoppers, anonymously, on 1800 333000.