Stock theft a major headache for Barrage SAPS

BARRAGE – Police in the Barrage precinct are battling with livestock theft as ongoing syndicates leave farmers and stock owners in rural communities bearing the brunt of economic losses. According to police spokesperson Sergeant Sophia Gaboutlwelwe, a total of four cases have been opened in their station just in February alone. A total of 24 animals have disappeared without a trace, including 15 sheep, five goats, and four cows.

The total value of the animals taken is estimated to be close to R100 000. Speaking toSterGaboutlwelwe pleaded with stock owners to take it upon themselves to mark their animals. While police are working around the clock to try to recover stolen livestock, rural safety co-ordinator Sergeant Albertina Shabalala said, “It’s difficult for police to find stolen cattle when owners have not brandmarked.

When cattle are branded, it makes the job easy, as there is a dedicated division that deals with stock theft.” “When we do community engagements, we issue pamphlets on how stock is brandmarked, and they don’t follow the rules,” she added. Add The Citizen as a preferred source to see more from Sedibeng Ster in Google News and Top Stories.