Police appealing for public assistance after thefts over Melbourne

Police are appealing for public assistance to help locate Lupco Ristevski. PICTURE: Eyewatch - Yarra Ranges Police Service Area

Police are appealing for public assistance to help locate Lupco Ristevski.

The 49-year-old from Port Kembla in NSW, is wanted on a warrant following a series of alleged thefts and deceptions across metropolitan Melbourne during April and May.

It is alleged while shopping in supermarkets, up to 12 older women have had their purses stolen from handbags resting in their shopping trolleys.

The offending occurred in various supermarkets across Knox, Forest Hill, Lilydale, Ferntree Gully, Scoresby, Camberwell, Greensborough, and Croydon North.

It is alleged credit cards from the stolen property have then been used to make unauthorised purchases at various outlets.

Detectives have released an image of Ristevski in the hope someone may be able to provide information on his current whereabouts.

Ristevski is described as being Southern European in appearance, is about 178cm tall, of medium build with brown eyes and a brown beard.

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