A recent rise in stock theft has local police concerned local police, therefore they are urging plot and farm owners to take extra precaution when it comes to the protection of their animals.
Constable Lucky Matome, a police spokesperson, lists these tips as measures that need to be taken to protect your animals, and investments, from being stolen from your plot or farm:
1. Brand or tag your stock.
“If we find cattle that has been stolen, we have no evidence to prove it. Unless the animals have been branded by their owner,” Matome explained.
You can mark your stock according to legal prescriptions that local Warrant Officer Kgage will be able to lay out for you. Contact him on 072 677 7432 if you need more information regarding the rules and regulations of stock branding in South Africa.
2. Fence off your animals.
Poor fencing attracts potential theft, making it much easier for stock thieves to gain access and take your animals.
“Even though thieves do cut fencing, proper fencing might still discourage them to try to enter your property.”
3. Accumulate basic employee information.
According to Matome, farm owners, who are often casual worker employers, should have basic information like addresses and contact numbers of their employees. It eliminates possible suspects and makes the investigation for police offers much easier.
4. Get involved with community safety.
“When the police, neighbourhood watch or community policing forum calls a meeting, try to attend,” Matome said.
“It is an opportunity to get to know your area’s officers and stay up to date about what is happening around you.”
5. Employ a night guard.
“Many farmers have shepherds that overlook their animals throughout the day. But there should be protection at night as well.”
Matome adds that most stock theft cases are around the Krugersdorp countryside like Sterkfontein, Tarlton, Muldersdrift and Magaliesburg as well as in Randfontein. Normally, thieves do not use getaway vehicles and some cases saw animals being slaughtered right outside their owner’s property.
If you are suspected to be in possession of stolen good or stock, Matome explained that punishment of imprisonment and a hefty fine can be expected of you if you are indeed found guilty.
Related articles:
• Complainant and suspect arrested for chicken theft
• Two arrested for stock theft
