It's a race against time as police hope for a small Christmas miracle to help return allegedly stolen gifts to their rightful owners.
Officers were called to Paterson Street, Princes Hill, this afternoon after a man, who had been the victim of an earlier theft from motor vehicle, noticed his property in the back of a car.
He confronted a man at the scene who got into another car and drove off.
Police attended and made further enquires that indicated that the car was an outstanding stolen vehicle.
The car was searched and items belonging to the victim at the scene were returned to him.
Officers also located wrapped gifts which they believe may be stolen.
The items have been taken to Fitzroy Police Station and investigators are hoping to give Santa a hand in figuring out where the presents should be delivered.
Officers have released photos of the presents and urge anyone with further information to contact Fitzroy Police Station on (03) 9934 6400.
