Stock theft on the increase warns neighbourhood watch
The Rand West Neighbourhood Watch pleads to the community and farmers to help in the fight against stock theft which has worsened.
A recent increase in stock theft has left the entire community concerned.
Henry Boyce, one of the founders of the Rand West Neighbourhood Watch, shared his concerns and offered precautions and prevention methods regarding the matter.
Boyce explained that the main cause of stock theft increases can be attributed to a group of perpetrators stealing cattle and escaping without persecution.
According to Boyce, if these types of perpetrators get away without consequences, the possibility of returning to steal more cattle is more likely. He stated that since the festive season is approaching, cattle get sold for a cheaper price, therefore they are making an easy cash profit.
Boyce said that stock theft is most common during the early morning hours between 02:00 and 05:00 and added that thieves have the comfort of darkness to help them hide.
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“People are usually in deep sleep at this time and there is little to no movement on the roads. Perpetrators can see oncoming headlights or flashlights thus increasing the chances of a successful theft. Since the roads are clear of any vehicles, the chances of the perpetrators being caught are most likely nil.” He added that in most cases taxis are used since they normally drive unusual hours and routes.
He further emphasised that these thieves do thorough planning.
“They search for cattle and pinpoint where they are. They then examine the safety and security of the area. They also make note of how much movement the premises have. Afterwards, they test how easy it is to gain access to the cattle,” Boyce claimed.
He added that sheep are called “takeaways” because they are mostly silent when stolen. He said that stealing cattle becomes more easy once access is gained to the cattle. Since cattle are used to being chased around, the cattle comply when the perpetrators chase them off the premises.
Boyce said that it is rare for perpetrators to steal in their own communities and perpetrators usually target neighbouring towns.
He explained that stock theft has great consequences for farmers and herders.
“The number of cattle stolen simply cannot be replaced. We need to work together to stop this scourge which is worsening,” Boyce pleaded.
