28 cattle perish after poisoning
State vets and forensic investigators perform autopsies on cattle in Hluhluwe.
A RIOT broke out on a Kaas farm in Hluhluwe yesterday when angry community members threatened to burn down the farm following the death of 27 head of stray cattle, believed to be as a result of poisoning.
One of the cattle owners who spoke to the Zululand Observer alleged that the herd was poisoned on purpose by the farmer, saying he laced the grass with pineapple insecticide intentionally because he did not want the animals on his land.
The owner says the animals walk far and wide in search of grazing and drink water from the farmers dam because of the ongoing drought.
According to reports, the Public Order Policing Unit, police from KwaMsane and Hluhluwe responded to diffuse the volatile situation.
A St Lucia resident and commentator said although nobody agrees or approves of animals suffering a cruel death, the incident highlights the ongoing problem of herds wandering anywhere and everywhere, including in residential areas and national roads, leading to many accidents, injuries and even deaths.
‘The chiefs are given trust land exactly for the purpose of relief for cattle grazing.’
State vets and forensics investigators attended the scene to take samples of the ground, water and perform autopsies on the animals. The farmer also reportedly lost rare black Impala worth more than R2-million.
Read more in the ZO Weekend Edition out tomorrow.
