Just after 7am on Monday a man walked through the front door of a home in East Dubbo, shortly after one of the occupants of the property had left for work.

When confronted the intruder threatened another occupant, before leaving the house with jewellery, an iPad and a mobile phone.

Amazingly, after the victim pleaded with him, he left the phone in the mailbox.

Orana Local Area Command investigations manager Detective Sergeant Mark Meredith said police were seeking any information that may help them find the culprit.

“The man was unknown to the occupant of the house and is described as being in his early 30s, with tanned skin, and approximately 170-180cm tall,” Det Sgt Meredith said.

“He is of medium build, and was wearing blue jeans and a blue jumper.”

Tellingly, police also believe the culprit knew what he was doing as he had disguised his appearance.

“Based on the description given to us it certainly seems the perpetrator had planned to perform some crimes that morning,” Det Sgt Meredith said.

“In this instance the front door had been left open and that gave him an opportunity but we think he was probably up to no good anyway.

“It’s a timely reminder that regardless of the time of day, home security is important.

“We’re fighting a big war on home invasions in Dubbo at the moment, and as police we’re doing out best to lock up the people committing these crimes.

“But we also need people to remain vigilant when it comes to securing their homes, and make it as hard as possible for these criminals to get inside and get access.”

Dubbo’s home invasion numbers dropped from January to February of this year, after the city recorded almost 100 per month in 2016.

Anyone with information can call Dubbo Police Station on 6883 1599 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.