More than $1400 worth of groceries were left in a trolley and abandoned in the Woolworths carpark after the offender allegedly stealing the items was apprehended by a community member.
Police said the incident occurred during a busy time at Woolworths Warragul on Christmas eve.
It is alleged the man left the store as a second offender entered through the entry gates at about 6.10pm.
Police said staff called out to the offender and a community member chased the man and wrestled him to the ground. It is believed the second man came to his assistance and threatened the community member, demanding he free the man.
The men left the car park in a red Holden Commodore sedan with stolen registration plates.
Police said a tally of the items in the trolley, that was left in the car park, added up to $1465.