In a major blow to livestock thieves, a combined police operation has resulted in the recovery of 208 stolen cattle valued at R2.8 million. The three-day inter-district raid, conducted from February 12 to 14, 2025, was a collaborative effort between the Stock Theft and Endangered Species Units, Vispol, Mounted, and K9 units.
The operation, which involved officers from Alfred Nzo, Joe Gqabi, and OR Tambo districts, aimed to track stolen livestock, enforce branding laws, and crack down on illegal firearms. The police efforts paid off, with the recovery of not only the stolen cattle but also 15 sheep, 25 goats, two unlicensed 9mm pistols, 46 rounds of ammunition, and 78,850 liters of confiscated liquor.
The mounted police played a crucial role in retrieving livestock from rugged mountainous terrain. Three suspects, aged between 27 and 65, were arrested for illegal firearm possession, with one also wanted for an assault GBH case in Qumbu.
In addition to the recoveries, 14 stock owners were fined R4,250 for failing to brand their livestock, a legal requirement aimed at preventing theft. The police have urged affected stock owners to visit municipal pounds to identify and reclaim their animals.
This successful operation is a significant blow to stock thieves in Sulenkama and surrounding areas, where stock theft has been a persistent problem, often leading to financial loss and violent confrontations.
