Police search for owner of allegedly stolen $100k jewellery loot

The search is on for the mystery owner of almost $100,000 worth of jewellery found within an allegedly stolen car.

Victoria Police discovered the loot while busting an apparent illegal drug and unlicensed second-hand car dealership in Melbourne’s west.

Three cars were seized from the house at Caroline Springs including an allegedly stolen BMW 750i, where the jewellery was discovered.

A diamond aquamarine ring, stud earrings in a Cartier box and a ruby ring made up the haul, estimated to be worth between $85,000 and $100,000.

Detective Senior Constable Shannon Foden said police were keen to get the pieces reunited with their rightful owner.

“These are fairly distinctive pieces of jewellery – they’re high end pieces and pretty valuable,” he said.

“A lot of work has gone into identifying who they might belong to, but our inquiries haven’t been able to turn anything up and we’ve hit a bit of a brick wall.

Victoria Police have found jewellery worth more than $100k.
Victoria Police have found jewellery worth more than $100k. Credit: Supplied

“I have no doubt they’re incredibly precious pieces of jewellery to someone, and we are very keen to reunite them with their owners.”

The jewellery does not match any current missing reports and are not believed to be related to the BMW they were found in.

A 43-year-old Caroline Springs man was hit with a list of charges after the car was found including burglary, theft, criminal damage, reckless conduct endangering serious injury and commit indictable offences while on bail.

He faced Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 28 January, 2022.

Victoria Police have found jewellery worth more than $100k.
Victoria Police have found jewellery worth more than $100k. Credit: Supplied

A 29-year-old Caroline Springs man was also charged with burglary, theft of motor vehicle, theft, criminal damage and car rebirthing offences.

He was bailed and will face Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 1 June, 2022.

Anyone who recognises the jewellery or who has information about it is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or file a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.axjmtzywu