As part of intensifying the fight against property related crimes particularly theft of livestock, stock theft units in the North West province arrested a total of 42 suspects between June and September 2018.
The suspects were arrested at different locations within the province through various operations. During the operations, the following livestock worth over R1 million was recovered:
92 Cattle, 12 Calves, 82 Goats, 25 Sheep and 2 Horses.
The police also issued fines to livestock owners and farmers for contravention of Animal Identification Act, 2002 (Act No. 6 of 2002) and Stock theft Act, 1959 (Act No. 57 of 1959).
In one of the operations conducted in Reivilo, the police managed to seize a Ford Ranger bakkie and a trailer that were allegedly used during the commission of the crime.
The North West Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Baile Motswenyane lauded stock theft unit members for their efforts that led to the recoveries and apprehension of the suspects. She members of the community work together with the police in an endeavour to bring down the levels of property related crime.
As part of preventative measures, the police would like to urge livestock owners and farmers to take extra care of their livestock. They are advised to apply the following safety tips:
Ensure that their livestock is correctly brand marked in accordance with the Animal Identification Act, 2002.
Check fences and gates regularly and maintain them to protect stock.
If possible, appoint a trained workers to patrol the fences daily.
Always lock up loading ramps in camps or places on the farm where there is no direct supervision, or see to it that they are out of sight.
Ensure that stolen stock cannot be hidden on your farm. If you notice strange animals or suspicious persons at a cattle post, report it to the SAPS immediately.
Personally count your stock at least once a week.
If your farm is on the country’s borders, do not get involved in illegal deals with citizens of neighbouring countries.
Know your neighbours, if you are going on leave or taking a trip leave your phone numbers to your neighbours so that they can report of any irregular things happening at your farm.
South Africa Today – South Africa News
