No arrest has been made in connection with massive livestock theft and slaughter in the north of Pretoria.
Over 1 000 sheep and goats have been stolen in Grootvlei in recent months, farmers said. And the anticipated surge in the crime has farmers in the area deeply worried.
“This crime has been quiet but we know it is going to rise as the festive season is fast approaching,” said a farmer who asked not to be identified.
Last Monday a cow was slaughtered and its carcass dumped in the bushes. The owner said criminals tended to kill livestock on the spot, taking only the meat cuts they wanted.
“The rest of the carcass is left behind. They prefer this to the risk of getting caught [with the animal] and being charged with stock theft.”
He said recently there had been no case of theft or slaughter because of community patrols.
“We are visible and patrolling as much as we can but farmers must also protect their livestock.”
These criminals used wire traps to catch the livestock, said the farmer.
He said the police were investigating, but farmers would continue working with the local CPF to maximise the security of their stock.
SPCA had said it was not aware of the slaughter of livestock in the area but would look into the matter.
“If there are reports, we are definitely going to investigate,” said spokesperson Korky Levanon.
Police were not immediately available for comment.
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