Police believe they have broken a huge stock theft ring, recovering around 150 stolen cattle valued at around R756 000.
The cattle were stolen from this area and sold at auction sales at Standerton and Ermelo.

Police said the breakthrough came after 17 head of cattle were stolen from Hazeldene farm on the Nquthu road and one animal from Stratford farm. Suspicions were raised when an attempt was made to cash a cheque for R100 000 in Volksrust following a cattle auction in Standerton.

The buyer stopped the cheque and a man was taken in for questioning.

Following this, three men were charged after an investigation uncovered the ring. Eight trips were made over a period of two months to Ermelo and Standerton where the stolen livestock was sold on auction and around R756 000 cashed following the sales. Those who have been granted bail following a court appearance include Ayanda Banga and Muziwandile Zulu while Phakhamani Dube was not given bail.