| Minister of Police leads Ministerial Stakeholder Engagement to strengthen response to stock theft | |
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| Date Published: | 2025/03/20 |
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Media Statement
BLOEMFONTEIN - The Minister of Police, Mr Senzo Mchunu, hosted a Ministerial Stakeholder Engagement with Stock Theft Unit Commanders and key stakeholders to address the growing challenges posed by stock theft in South Africa. The meeting brought together Members of the Executive Council (MECs), Head Office Top Management, senior officials from the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, and Free State provinces, along with law enforcement representatives and key stakeholders in the agricultural sector. The purpose of the engagement was to discuss the escalating problem of stock theft, review current intervention measures, and explore additional strategies to combat this type of crime, which continues to have a devastating impact on local economies, communities, and farmers. Stakeholders also deliberated on the effectiveness of existing laws and enforcement mechanisms and identified potential collaborative actions to strengthen the response to stock theft. Minister Mchunu says stock theft has long been a critical challenge facing rural communities in South Africa, posing significant threats to both the livelihoods of farmers and the overall economic stability of the country. "Addressing stock theft is a priority for government and law enforcement agencies, particularly in rural communities located close to the borders of the country, which have been notably affected by high levels of stock theft," said Minister Mchunu. Reiterating the Minister's sentiments, the National Commissioner of the SAPS, General Fannie Masemola stated: "Our deliberations today must yield positive results and also positively contribute towards addressing known challenges including stock theft within the farming communities." In line with national efforts to combat crime and strengthen rural safety, the South African Police Service and stakeholders are committed to finding innovative, collaborative solutions for stock theft and related crimes in South Africa. Ends
Enquiries:
Maj Gen Nonkululeko Phokane
X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/SAPoliceService | |
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