Knickers nicked from Melbourne clotheslines

Victoria Police detectives have arrested and charged a man accused of stealing almost 20 pairs of women's underwear from clotheslines across Melbourne's east.

Police searched an apartment in Power Street, Hawthorn on November 10, where they discovered the collection of undergarments.

It is believed the 27-year-old man began stealing the garments from the Hawthorn area in February and police allege he had 18 pairs of underthings in his possession at the time of his arrest.

He has been charged with theft and will appear at Melbourne Magistrates' Court on Friday.

Investigators have located the owners of three of the items but would like to speak to anyone who has had underwear stolen in the last year.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.