A sergeant and two shepherds were arrested by SAPS for stock theft and the possession of unlicensed firearms in the New Hanover area in KZN.

According SAPS KZN spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda, the police officer involved was found in possession of stolen goats and cattle with two shepherds during a SAPS operation on Thursday.

“[SAPS members] who specialise in stock theft in Pietermaritzburg, working together with the Pietermaritzburg Tactical Response Team (TRT), were conducting an operation at Trustfeed, in the New Hanover area, when the sergeant, aged 39, and two shepherds, aged 22 and 55 years old, were arrested,” said Netshiunda.

He added that they were found in possession of 40 goats, seven cattle – which were reported stolen in Mooi River in December 2023 – six firearms and ammunition of various calibre firearms.

The Provincial Commissioner of KwaZulu-Natal Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi issued a strong warning to officers who use their positions in the force for their own benefit.

“We have a big fight on our hands – that is the fight against brazen criminals.

“What we cannot afford is to have our own members working against us. We shall ensure that any police officer who is found to be stepping on the other side of the law is met with the maximum disciplinary action, which will also be a deterrent to others,” said Mkhwanazi.

Netshiunda said the three suspects will appear in court soon.