According to the Conservancy Committee in Kaapsehoop, a number of horses have been killed in recent incidents, which may be linked to poaching and to recent cattle deaths in the area.

The committee reported that four horses were apparently poached – three from the town herd and one from the Kaapsehoop horse trails. The remains of two other horses were discovered in the Blue Swallow Reserve and are also suspected to have been victims of poaching.

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The committee has engaged the services of Lowveld Farm Watch and a criminal investigator, and with support from Crime Assist, criminal cases are being opened to ensure the offences are fully investigated and prosecuted.

In addition, they have reached out to local cattle owners in Berlin, who have recently suffered similar losses, to coordinate efforts to protect both horses and livestock.

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The committee said it is working to develop effective solutions and implement a tangible plan using all available resources to prevent further incidents. A progress report with updates on actions taken will be shared as the story develops.