| Stock Theft operations yielding positive results | |
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| Date Published: | 2017/03/08 |
| Description Details: | |
Media Statement from Eastern Cape Media Centre
KING WILLIAM’S TOWN –The SAPS’ unremitting efforts to curb Stock Theft in the Eastern Cape are yielding positive results. Stock Theft operations held in the Mthatha, Ngcobo, Qumbu, Tsolo, Mqanduli, Flagstaff and Bizana areas from 1 December 2016 to date has led to the arrest of 377 suspects and the confiscation of 252 cattle, 218 sheep, 212 goats and 129 horses which were either found in the possession of the suspects or abandoned in grazing fields. The stock is kept at Qumbu Municipality Pound, Tsolo Municipality Pound, Flagstaff Pound and Mqanduli Pound. The SAPS call upon all farmers/ livestock owners in and around these areas to visit the above mentioned pounds as soon as they can, as the stock is to be sold very soon. We urge the farmers/ livestock owners to bring along an SAP 429 form, which is proof that they have opened cases for the lost stock. If the stock is branded, the stock owners must bring with a brand certificate. Local SAPS Stock Theft Units will be able to assist with enquiries. “The theft of livestock is not seen as just another theft of property, often even small numbers of livestock represent the livelihood of a family and their means to sustain themselves, hence SAPS views Stock Theft cases in a very serious light. We have implemented a special project to enhance the capacity of stock theft units throughout the province and these arrests and recoveries are the outcome of that project”, said Lt Gen Liziwe Ntshinga. We also call on farmers/ livestock owners to count their stock regularly and immediately report any missing stock or stock recovered. It is important that farmers and/or livestock owners brand their livestock. This becomes very crucial in identifying stock and for court proceedings. It is also important that farmers/ livestock owners comply with the Stock Theft Act and ensure that the necessary documentation is issued when stock is sold and transported. These documents can be obtained from local police stations. Anyone who has lost stock or have any information on stock theft, can contact Lt Col Sello Rute, attached to SAPS Provincial Detective Services on 082 319 9257. Media Enquiries: Colonel Sibongile Soci - 079 525 0464 and Captain Dineo Koena – 079 8900 742
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