Residents are urged to be on high alert after incidences of dog poisonings in the area were reported.

According to Callum mac Pherson of Securicon, so far, three dogs have been confirmed to have died due to poisoning in Steiltes last week, between July 9 and 10.

Mac Pherson said these poisonings raised concerns about crime syndicates targeting vehicles, motorcycles and trailers. He said one trailer and four motorcycles had recently been reported stolen in Mbombela.

“Residents need to make sure their trailers and motorcycles are secured at all times, especially at night, because this syndicate poisons the dogs so they can get into these yards and steal. They must also ensure these items are secured even during the day, especially when they are not at home,” he said.

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Mac Pherson urged all owners to immediately take their pets to a vet if they suspect poisoning. “Extreme salivation, shivering and diarrhoea are strong indications of poisoning. If you think your pets have been poisoned, do not pick them up or touch them without gloves, as often the poison can be absorbed through human skin. Wrap your dog in blankets,” he said.

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Meanwhile, a provincial police spokesperson, Captain Magonseni Nkosi, confirmed that the cases of the trailer and motorcycles had been reported to the Nelspruit Police Station and are being investigated. No arrest has been made as yet; however, Nkosi encourages the residents to report such incidents.

He called on anyone with any information to contact the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111 or to send information via the My SAPS app.