Members of the police in the Cluster of Bethlehem are sweeping the area clean of stock theft ahead of the long awaited Easter break.
Sheep and cattle stolen in Clarens, Rosendal, and Bethlehem were recovered on 10 and 11 April 2019 and one suspect arrested. Bethlehem Cluster Commander Maj Gen Jan Tsotetsi says he is pleased that all relevant role players appear to be on board with safeguarding livestock.
On 10 April 2019, a 35 year old man was arrested and four cattle to an estimated value of R60 000 recovered in Bethlehem. Members of Bethlehem Crime Intelligence, Visible Policing, and Fouriesburg Stock Theft Unit reacted to information about suspicious cattle. It was confirmed, by means of brand marks, that the stock had been stolen at a farm near Clarens.
The owner, who was not yet aware of the overnight theft, was called for identification and the stock returned.
In Paul Roux, 45 sheep estimated to cost R135 000 were found hidden inside a disused building at a nearby farm. The stock had been stolen the previous night in Rosendal. Members of Fouriesburg Stock Theft Unit had followed tracks from the Rosendal farm.
On Thursday 11 April, members of Bethlehem Visible Policing and K9 Unit found 13 sheep at an open space near Bergsig-Bethlehem, with feet fastened. They were responding to information about sheep stolen at a farm in the district.
“Anyone found in possession of meat from suspected stolen livestock shall be arrested. Report any suspicious seller to the nearest police,” warns Maj Gen Tsotetsi.
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