Glencoe Stock Theft Unit, in conjunction with Ladysmith Stock Theft members and Crime Intelligence, embarked on a Festive Season operations in the northern part of KwaZulu-Natal in an attempt to fight the stealing of livestock in their areas.’

The operation started on December 3 and went through  until  December  15. A total of 64 suspects were arrested for various crimes such as stock theft related cases, armed robberies, possession of drugs and possession of unlicensed firearms. Ninety three  suspected stolen cattle, seven goats and 28 sheep were recovered during their operations.

The members were conducting these operations at Dundee, Pomeroy, Dannhauser, Madadeni, Newcastle and Ladysmith. Twenty-two of the arrested suspects were charged for stock theft cases and a total of 42 suspects were charged for failing to brand-mark their livestock animals as required by the law. Two unlicensed firearms and dagga were also found during the operations.

The KwaZulu-Natal Acting Provincial Commissioner, Major General Bheki Langa commended the members for conducting such operations in curbing the stealing of live-stock in their areas. “We appeal to livestock owners to take extra precautions during this festive season and make sure that they look after their livestock. They must also brand-mark their livestock so that it will be easier to identify them when found by police. Our members will continue with such operations throughout the province to make sure that perpetrators are brought to book,” he said.