POLOKWANE – A total of 51 goats and 21 sheep were recovered during the arrest of a 24-year-old man in Mahwelereng on Saturday, 3 August.
Police Spokesperson, Col Moatshe Ngoepe says members of the Stock Theft Unit in Mahwelereng received information about suspected stolen livestock in Ga-Madiba and, and assisted by Public Order members (POPS), conducted an operation which led to the arrest of the suspect.
Seven goats and three sheep were first found in possession of the arrested suspect and the rest were recovered from the premises of two other people who managed to evade arrest.
“The men, who are known to the police, are currently being sought. Of the 51 goats and 21 sheep that were recovered, eight goats and two sheep were identified by the rightful owners on Sunday, 4 August. We are appealing to stock owners, especially those residing in the areas of ga-Mashashane and ga-Matlala, outside Polokwane to report to the Mahwelereng police station for possible identification of their livestock,” Ngoepe said.
He added that anyone whose goats and or sheep have gone missing or stolen, to contact Captain Kekana at 082 319 9318; Warrant Officer Skwaila at 082 319 9532 or the Standby Stocktheft number 079 781 6523.
Ngoepe added that police are calling on Lucky Maluleke from Mshongo in Mahwelereng and Benny Matlou from ga-Madiba, to avail themselves at the Mahwelereng Police Station or at any other police station to assist in the unfolding investigations. Anyone with information or who knows the whereabouts of the two men, is requested to contact the nearest police station.
Provincial Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nneke Ledwaba commended all members involved for their speedily response in the case.
“The arrest of the suspect and the recovery of these animals will make a serious dent in the scourge of livestock theft in the province. The remaining suspects must be hunted down and brought to book,” Ledwaba concluded.
The arrested suspect will appear in the Mahwelereng Magistrate Court on a charge of possession of suspected stolen livestock.
