The Rural Crime Prevention Team – NSW Police Force from the Riverina Police District is appealing for information following the attempted poisoning of 120 Poll Dorset stud rams at a rural property near Murrulebale (north of Marrar) in the Riverina Police District.
Rural Crime Investigators have commenced an investigation after a significant amount of granular urea (sample depicted) was allegedly trailed out in a feedline in a paddock containing the rams at a property in Murrulebale.
Granular urea is highly toxic to sheep and could have resulted in the death of the animals if consumed.
The rams were in the process of being finished for a ram sale and have an estimated collective value of between $300,000 and $400,000. Fortunately, the rams were located and removed from the area before any apparent harm occurred on 14th September 2026.
Rural Crime Investigators attended the property and have commenced inquiries. While initial investigations have been undertaken, police are now seeking assistance from the community to identify the person or persons responsible.
The Rural Crime Prevention Team – NSW Police Force are particularly interested in hearing from anyone who:
• Saw suspicious persons or vehicles in the Murrulebale area.
• Has information regarding the purchase, transport or use of granular urea in suspicious circumstances.
• Has any information that may assist investigators.
Anyone with information should contact the following Rural Crime Investigators Detective Senior Constable Paul Clancy at Cootamundra Police Station on 0427 552 848, or Detective Sergeant Ned Doubleday at Wagga Wagga Police Station on 0429 596 435.
Alternatively you can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit information online at www.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence and callers can remain anonymous.
The Rural Crime Prevention Team – NSW Police Force reminds landholders to report any suspicious activity around livestock, machinery, chemicals, fodder or rural properties as soon as possible.
If you know something, no matter how small it may seem, please come forward.
Please quote NSWPF Event Number E89750665
Crime Stoppers NSW NSW Farmers Local Land Services NSW NSW Agriculture
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