Members of the police in the Cluster of Bethlehem are sweeping the area clean of stock theft ahead of the long-awaited Easter break.
Sheep and cattle stolen in Clarens, Rosendal, and Bethlehem were recovered on 10 and 11 April and one suspect arrested. Bethlehem Cluster Commander Maj Gen Jan Tsotetsi says he is pleased that all relevant role players appear to be on board with safeguarding livestock.
On 10 April, a 35-year-old man was arrested and four cattle to an estimated value of R60 000 recovered in Bethlehem. Members of Bethlehem Crime Intelligence, Visible Policing, and Fouriesburg Stock Theft Unit reacted to information about suspicious cattle. It was confirmed, by means of brand marks, that the stock had been stolen at a farm near Clarens. The owner, who was not yet aware of the overnight theft, was called for identification and the stock returned.
In Paul Roux, 45 sheep estimated to cost R135 000 were found hidden inside a disused building at a nearby farm. The stock had been stolen the previous night in Rosendal. Members of Fouriesburg Stock Theft Unit had followed tracks from the Rosendal farm.
On Thursday 11 April, members of Bethlehem Visible Policing and K9 Unit found 13 sheep at an open space near Bersig-Bethlehem, with feet fastened. They were responding to information about sheep stolen at a farm in the district.
“Anyone found in possession of meat from suspected stolen livestock shall be arrested. Report any suspicious seller to the nearest police,” warns Maj Gen Tsotetsi.
Advice on Preventing Stock Theft
As part of preventative measures, the police would like to urge livestock owners and farmers to take extra care of their livestock. They are advised to apply the following safety tips:
· Ensure that their livestock is correctly brand marked in accordance with the Animal Identification Act, 2002.
· Check fences and gates regularly and maintain them to protect stock.
· If possible, appoint a trained workers to patrol the fences daily.
. Always lock up loading ramps in camps or places on the farm where there is no direct supervision, or see to it that they are out of sight.
· Ensure that stolen stock cannot be hidden on your farm. If you notice strange animals or suspicious persons at a cattle post, report it to the SAPS immediately.
· Personally count your stock at least once a week.
· If your farm is on the country’s borders, do not get involved in illegal deals with citizens of neighbouring countries.
· Know your neighbours, if you are going on leave or taking a trip leave your phone numbers to your neighbours so that they can report of any irregular things happening at your farm.