By Nasiphi Mabusela, Icamagu News Reporter,
Images: SAPS
Stock theft continues to plague Sulenkama and its surrounding areas, resulting in significant financial losses and violent clashes within communities. Despite the ongoing challenge, law enforcement’s efforts to tackle this issue are showing promising results. In a major breakthrough, a high-impact operation has successfully recovered 208 stolen cattle, valued at R2.8 million, alongside other stolen livestock and illegal firearms.
A three-day inter-district raid, conducted between 12 and 14 February 2025, was spearheaded by the Stock Theft and Endangered Species Units. Officers from the Alfred Nzo, Joe Gqabi, and OR Tambo districts teamed up to track down stolen livestock, enforce the country’s branding laws, and target illegal firearms. The coordinated operation also received crucial support from various specialized units, including Vispol, Mounted, and K9 units.
Recovered Items:
- 208 Cattle – valued at R2.8 million
- 15 Sheep – valued at R22,500
- 25 Goats – valued at R25,000
- Two unlicensed 9mm pistols
- 46 rounds of 9mm ammunition
- 78,850 litres of confiscated liquor
Mounted police, facing challenging terrain, were instrumental in recovering the livestock from the rugged mountainous areas. The operation led to the arrest of three suspects, aged between 27 and 65, who were found in possession of illegal firearms. One of the suspects is also wanted for an assault GBH (Grievous Bodily Harm) case in Qumbu.
As part of ongoing efforts to tackle stock theft, 14 stock owners were fined a total of R4,250 for failing to brand their livestock, a legal requirement aimed at reducing theft. Authorities have urged affected stock owners to visit municipal pounds to identify and reclaim their animals.
Despite the success of this operation, the fight against stock theft remains ongoing, with police continuing their commitment to safeguarding livestock and addressing the broader issue of rural crime.
@icamagunews
