A wide five-day police crackdown on stock theft across three Eastern Cape districts has brought renewed hope to livestock owners left upset by rural crime. From 13 to 17 May, police teams backed by community members combed stock theft hotspot areas including Qumbu, Tsolo, kwaBhaca, Sulenkama, and Maclear, recovering hundreds of animals suspected to have been stolen.
Among the recovered livestock are 231 cattle, 81 sheep, and 78 goats, together worth over R3 million. The animals are being held at secure municipal pounds in Qumbu and Tsolo, awaiting identification.
Police say rightful owners need to bring proper documentation to claim their animals. One farmer said he lost 12 cattle in March and is worried to see if any are among the recovered herd. “This is not just stock, it’s my family’s future,” he said.
Community members called for more visibility of stock theft units in rural areas
The operation also led to the arrest of a 27-year-old man driving a vehicle linked to a theft case in Soweto, and traffic fines totalling R9,500 were handed out for various offenses.
In Lusikisiki, police inspected butcheries for compliance, part of a broader effort to disrupt the illegal meat trade that often fuels livestock theft.
Acting Provincial Commissioner Major General Thandiswa Kupiso praised the coordinated effort, calling it a sign of progress in tackling a long-standing rural challenge.
District police leaders made awareness, urging communities to stay vigilant and continue working closely with law enforcement officials.
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