Sting operations lead to successful recovery of suspected stolen cattle:
Lizzy Arumugam of the Newcastle SAPS Corporate Communications office, has praised the Stock-Theft Unit for yet another successful weekend operation.
The stings resulted in the arrest of suspects and the recovery of stolen cattle.
On Sunday, January 9 at around 06:00, members of the unit conducted an operation in the Dicks Halt area of Osizweni.
“While there, they issued four J534’s (Admission of guilt fine),” explained Arumugam.
On Monday, January 10, at approximately 09:30, members conducted a suspect raid in the Botha’s Pass area.
“One suspect was apprehended for suspected stolen cattle during the raid.”
Members of the unit then conducted an Animal ID Operation at Mndozo, Osizweni on January 13.
“Here, five J534 fines were issued for failing to mark animals,” she said.
Members of the unit patrolled the Utrecht auction sale on January 14, where they issued two J534s.
One of the cattle at the auction was also identified as being stolen.
All cases are currently subject to further SAPS investigations.
Furthermore, Arumugam offered the following tips to ensure one’s livestock is safe from theft:
“Check to see if your animals have been properly marked. Farmers are urged to use the Livestock Identification System,” she said.
She further states that farmers should secure their property boundaries by maintaining fences.
She urged farmers to keep gates in good condition and ensure gates have sturdy locks and hinges.
“Loading ramps should also be placed as far away from the perimeter fence as possible.”
Keep accurate records, including livestock numbers, registration information, personal profiles of individual animals, and data on livestock movement.
“This will aid in determining whether livestock has been stolen, as well as when and where incidents occurred.”
She claimed good record-keeping could aid police in their investigations.
Arumugam said this would also increase the likelihood of tracking down missing animals, and the criminals who stole them.
“Establish and maintain positive relationships with your neighbours. A cohesive community is your best line of defence against crime. Inform your neighbours of your absence from the farm/cattle post and leave a contact phone number and address; ask them to keep an eye out for strangers and strange vehicles entering your property and to contact you if any problems arise.”
She also found it useful that farmers visit their cattle posts on a regular basis to become acquainted with any livestock issues.
“Lastly, make sure you report all incidents of livestock theft to the police,” she concluded.
