Stawell police were too clever for a pair of alleged burglars who tried their best to trick officers with licence plates made of paper and an even flimsier escape plan.
Officers intercepted a Toyota Camry sedan bearing false number plates travelling on Ararat Road just after 3am.
Police were quick to realise the registration plates were made of paper and while they were speaking with the driver the other occupant allegedly called triple-zero.
They reported a false “assault” nearby hoping the officers would be redirected but the incident was assigned to another unit.
The jig was up when those police returned the person’s call and realised what had occurred.
Police searched the vehicle and located a quantity of cash along with other stolen items.
They also located medication belonging to a person residing in Robson Road.
Police attended the Robson Road address and confirmed an alleged aggravated burglary had taken place.
The victim of the burglary was not injured during the incident.
A 33-year-old Ararat woman and a 34-year-old Golden Point man have been arrested and are assisting police with their enquiries.