Alleged thief asks SA police for a ride

A man who flagged down police for a lift has been arrested after they spotted suspected stolen goods in his backpack.

Police were called to an Adelaide residence in Osborne about 2am on Thursday after the occupant heard noises outside.

Police didn't find anyone but noticed copper piping connected to the hot water system had been stolen.

As they patrolled the area, they were flagged down by a man asking for a lift.

But as he spoke with them, he put his backpack down and police saw copper piping inside.

The 65-year-old Largs North man has been charged with theft and being unlawfully on premises and has been bailed to appear in the Port Adelaide magistrates court on January 5.