Amateur thief pokes around restaurant before stealing cash

CCTV has captured the bizarre movements of an amateur thief who snuck around a restaurant in Melbourne’s south-east before stealing cash.

The man broke into the Clayton business on Clayton Road about 3.20am on February 15.

With a black hoodie stretched over his head, he can be seen sneaking up to the cash register before carefully peering into drawers and cupboards.

He then entered the office and storeroom, where police say he stole cash.

Dressed in black at the time of the idle robbery, he is described as Caucasian, cleanly shaven and of a thin build.

Police have released the CCTV and are appealing for witnesses to track him down.

Anyone who is able to identify the man or with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.