Eastern Cape police have launched a manhunt following a violent stock theft incident in Lower Tyirha locality, Qumbu, where armed thieves shot a woman and made off with approximately 200 sheep on the night of Saturday, 29 March 2025.
The 33-year-old woman was reportedly shot and injured when stock thieves raided a homestead around 9:00 PM. They then drove away with the livestock, prompting the opening of an attempted murder and stock theft case by the Qumbu police.
Despite immediate response efforts, officers recovered only one sheep during the initial overnight search. However, a breakthrough came the following day. On Sunday afternoon, 30 March 2025, police—acting on a tip-off—discovered a large group of sheep near a river in the Bhelekence locality. With assistance from local community members, authorities recovered 145 sheep alive. Tragically, 24 were already dead, having been concealed in a steep and hazardous river valley.
At this stage, no suspects have been arrested, and investigations are ongoing.
Police are urging anyone with information to come forward. Individuals can contact their nearest police station or Qumbu Detective Commander, D/Captain Mteteleli Nongcawula, at 071 037 1863. Callers may choose to remain anonymous.
For updates, visit the SAPS Newsroom: https://www.saps.gov.za/newsroom/msspeechdetail.php?nid=59993
