Stock theft fight intensifies

The KwaZulu Natal area has recently encountered a spike in stock theft case. Hard hit areas include: Ladysmith, Ezakheni, Elaandslaagte and Harry Gwala Cluster areas. This has become a major concern to the SAPS and they have vowed to intensify their operations in curbing such crimes by doing more patrols and stop and searches duties.

During previous operations conducted by various Stock Theft Unit in the province, a number of stolen livestock were recovered and arrests were made. Since approaching festive season there is an increase in stock theft cases reported to the police.

” We are therefore making an appeal to the members of community to get involved in preventing such cases, by looking after their livestock and making sure that their livestock are brand marked. In terms of Animal Identification Act 6 of 2002, it is the duty of livestock owners to brand mark their animals. The police will act on those who fail to comply with this Act,” Lieutenant Colonel
Thulani Zwane stressed.

Lieutenant Colonel Zwane stated that “our Stock Theft Units are willing to assist those livestock owners who might need help as to how they can permit certificate and equipment of branding their livestock. Crime awareness campaigns are also conducted by the members to various communities including Izinduna and other crime fighting organisations teaching them the importance of brandmarking their animals.”