An extensive investigation of cattle theft in the Ward 17 area of Mawukwini in Ladysmith has seen three suspects arrested and appearing in court.
The community of Mawukwini say that cattle theft has been a problem in the area for a long time now and they are very angry. A court appearance was scheduled for Monday, but was postponed because one of the suspect’s lawyers was not present. The investigating officer was also not there, which gave residents more reason to be angry.
One community member told the Gazette that 11 cattle are still missing in the area; a few have been recovered. It is believed that the stolen cattle were recovered near to a kraal belonging to a suspect.
When a worker looking after the cattle was questioned by community members, he allegedly said there were a few cattle he has never seen before and that he was asked to take the livestock to another kraal in the area. However, the new owner claims he legitimately bought the cattle and has the paperwork to prove it.
The case will continue on Monday next week.
