With the help of numerous partners, including the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, the South African Police Service (SAPS) members from the Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit oversaw a three-day operation in the Joe Gqabi District, with a focus on communities like Debeze, Mbenze, and Nkonkweni in Qumbu.
Over 200 cattle were discovered in the bushes, according to a report from police spokesperson Warrant Officer Majola Nkohli, and they were transferred to convenient locations for identification.
“Local farmers managed to identify some of their stock, and the rest were taken to municipal compounds. The operation was also extended to include residential areas, where a motorist was fined for transporting stock without a permit. A total of eight suspects were also arrested for contravening the Immigration Act,” said Nkohli.
On the last day of the operation, attention was given to generic livestock laws and awareness initiatives that aimed to encourage farmers to brand their cattle.
The Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nomthetheleli Mene, conveyed her gratitude to a group of diverse stakeholders who were instrumental in Operation Mazibuye Iinkomo Zam (Let my cows come back) in the Joe Gqabi District last week.
“As senior managers, we are pleased with the level of commitment by everyone, who was involved. There is hope to see improvement in the recovery of stolen stock. We also urge residents to always contact the nearest police, whenever they see suspicious people transporting livestock,” said Lieutenant General Mene.
UShongwe uthi phantsi ngemilo, makuveliswe iintshatsheli emanqindini!