Ballarat Divisional Response Unit detectives are appealing for public assistance following a number of aggravated burglaries in Ballarat this week, Victoria Police say.
An unknown offender has forced entry by cutting flywire screens at three residences in Redan and investigators believe they are linked.
The first burglary occurred at a house on Hampton Street about 7pm on Sunday 15 April.
Police have been told a man cut a flywire screen and stole a small amount of cash when he was disturbed by the resident, a man aged in his 80s.
No-one was injured and the offender fled the scene.
Two days later, at a block of units on Leith Street, an unknown man removed the flywire screen and stole a purse containing cash.
He was confronted by a female resident and fled the scene.
Investigators have been told an attempted aggravated burglary also occurred at the same block of units at about 2am on 15 April.
The offender is described as being aged 18-years-old to early 20s with hair, possible dreadlocks tied back in a pony tail.
Police are keen to speak to any witnesses or anyone that may have seen suspicious activity in the Redan area.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.
