Cattle slaughtered for meat trade as stock theft grows in Vhembe
A Khomele farmer found six slaughtered cattle in a growing stock theft wave that is crippling farmers across the Vhembe district.
LIMPOPO – A livestock farmer from Khomele is reeling after discovering the slaughtered remains of six of his cattle, stolen by thieves on May 30 – a growing trend that is severely affecting farmers across the Vhembe region.
Petrus Nemphambani said he had left his cattle grazing in the bush near Khomele. Upon returning, he discovered that some were missing. A search with fellow farmers led to a grisly discovery, namely the remains of one of the cows. During the search, they spotted suspects in the bush who fled, abandoning their vehicle.
“The police were called and they found meat, cell phones, and knives inside the car. Stock theft has escalated into a full-blown criminal enterprise. People are no longer stealing to eat. It has become a business. We suspect the meat was destined for local butcheries,” Nemphambani said.
In neighbouring areas including Gombani, Musekwa, Doli Doli and Ndouvhada, farmers are also suffering significant losses due to similar incidents. Joseph Mushovheli, another farmer from the region, told of his losses. “This is the second time my cattle have been targeted. It’s a nightmare. One of the cows slaughtered was pregnant, that’s how cruel this is. We won’t have peace of mind until these criminals are caught.”
Tshifhiwa Nethudzi, the chairperson of rural safety in Ward 37 under the Makhado Municipality, confirmed the rise in livestock theft and illegal meat trading. “Thieves are poaching and slaughtering cattle to supply meat to community members and butchers. We’ve formed alliances with surrounding villages to help trace stolen livestock,” he said.
Vhembe Police spokesperson WO Vuledzani Dathi confirmed the incident and reported that one suspect had been arrested. He appeared in the Musina Magistrate’s Court on June 4, with his bail application postponed to June 11. Two other suspects remain at large.
Dathi acknowledged the rising number of stock theft complaints across Limpopo, urging farmers to stay vigilant and report suspicious activity. As the court proceedings unfold, farmers across the region continue to demand stronger action to curb what they called an increasing crisis.
