Stock theft in the Eastern Cape is on the rise, leaving farmers devastated and workers fearing for their livelihoods. A recent incident on a local farm has highlighted the growing crisis, with thieves making off with multiple cattle and leaving behind only four cows.
The farm owner, still in shock, described the theft as unprecedented. “I cannot explain this. This has never happened,” he said. “If cattle are driven over a period of time, there’s usually a trail—manure, tracks—but we found nothing. The fences were cut, and there was evidence they were taken, but we have no leads.”
Despite extensive searches by the farmer and neighboring communities, the stolen livestock remain missing. The incident has also left farm workers deeply concerned about their jobs. One worker expressed his distress, saying, “We are the breadwinners in our homes. If the farm suffers, how will we feed our families?”
A Growing Scourge with Economic Consequences
Stock theft is not just a personal tragedy for farmers—it threatens food security and damages the province’s economy. Authorities report a sharp increase in cases, with over 1,800 incidents recorded between October and December 2024 alone—a rise of 167 cases compared to the same period the previous year. The Amathole District has been hit hardest, with more than 600 cases reported.
A provincial official acknowledged the alarming trend, stating, “Stock theft is rising, even though we’ve tried to reinforce law enforcement. It used to be worse on the eastern side of the province, where it was more like stock robbery—thieves taking livestock by force, even shooting people. But now, it’s spreading and becoming more serious here.”
Calls for Vigilance and Stronger Law Enforcement
The department has urged farmers to increase security measures, including hiring guards to monitor livestock. However, officials emphasize that once animals are stolen, it becomes a criminal matter requiring police intervention.
Police have confirmed they are investigating the latest theft and have called on the public to provide any information that could lead to arrests.
As stock theft continues to escalate, farmers and workers alike are left wondering when—or if—the trend will be reversed. For now, many remain on edge, fearing the next attack could push them to the brink.
