Residents wake to intruder breaking into two homes in Palmer Crescent in Gunnedah

The houses were targeted in Palmer Crescent in Gunnedah in the early hours of Friday, while both occupants slept.

A 57-year-old man woke to a loud noise before an intruder opened his bedroom door and then ran from the home at 3.25am.

About 4am, an 81-year-old woman woke to see the intruder running from her house. A 29-year-old man in the home found his mobile phone and wallet had been stolen in the break-in.

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Two women, believed to have been walking a dog about 5am in the street, found the wallet and handed it to police.

Now, officers are calling for them to come forward in a bid to help the investigation.

"We believe the women can help investigators, and we're appealing for them to contact Oxley police," Oxley Detective Acting Inspector Jason Darcy said.

"We're also appealing for any shift workers who might have been driving in the area, or anyone who might have seen this man acting suspiciously in and around the Palmer Crescent area."

Detective Darcy said the smallest piece of information could help officers.

"We would urge the community to remain vigilant and secure their valuables, their homes and their cars," he said.

"Keep a look out of their neighbours, and if they see anything suspicious, call police and we can patrol."

Anyone with information is urged to contact Oxley police on 6742 9099.