By Joseph Chirume.
Kariega
The Nelson Mandela Bay Metro Police arrested a suspect on Friday for cattle theft in Kwanobuhle. The officers, while on routine patrol in Pityana Street, discovered cattle being herded from nearby bushes behind a business area. One suspect was apprehended, admitting involvement in a theft organized from New Brighton, while two others fled.
“The Stock Theft Unit is assisting with the investigation, and efforts continue to locate the remaining suspects.
” The Metro Police emphasize that stock theft is a serious crime impacting farmers, livestock owners, and the community. Patrols and intelligence-driven operations will be intensified, and residents are urged to report any suspicious livestock movement or related criminal activity,” said the Municipality in a statement.
The Municipality reiterated its continued commitment to combating all forms of crime across the city.
” Through collaboration with law enforcement agencies and community engagement, the Municipality is determined to safeguard residents, protect property, and ensure that criminal activities are swiftly addressed to maintain a safe and secure environment for all.”
Theft of cattle, sheep and pigs have increased in the Municipality effecting permanent social scars and economic losses to small scale farmers. Some families depend on breeding and selling stock for their upkeep. A widowed cattle farmer who did not want to reveal her name in Motherwell lost 13 cattle to thiefs two years ago. She eventually abandoned the project and is now destitute.
She told The Messenger, “My husband passed away about ten years ago and left a big herd of cattle which assisted me to raise my children by selling some of the cattle. However, things changed two years ago when I and other farmers were targeted by criminals.
” We tried our best to guard the cattle 24 hours a day but criminals always found their way because they are armed. I am now depending on social grant to survive. There is a dangerous cattle syndicate operating in this Metro targeting small scale farmers,” adding that criminals are afraid to steal from farmers because there’s tight security.
