The Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nomthetheleli Mene expressed her appreciation to a team of various stakeholders, who were the driving force behind the success of Operation “Mazibuye Iinkomo Zam” (Let my cows come back) in the Joe Gqabi District last week.
On Wednesday, 14 June 2023, SAPS members from the Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit led a three-day operation with the assistance from various stakeholders such as Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development in the Joe Gqabi District, with a special focus in localities such as Debeze, Mbenze and Nkonkweni in Qumbu.
There were 200 cattle that were found in the bushes, and were taken to convenient spots for the identification purposes.
Local farmers managed to identify some of their stock, and the rest were taken to municipal compounds.
The operation was also extended to include residential areas, where a motorist was fined for transporting stock without a permit.
A total of eight suspects were also arrested for contravening the Immigration Act.
The last day of the operation focused on awareness campaigns, which were focused on encouraging farmers to brand their livestock, and generic laws around livestock.
Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nomthetheleli Mene said, “As senior managers, we are pleased with the level of commitment by everyone, who was involved. There is hope to see improvement in the recovery of stolen stock. We also urge residents to always contact the nearest police, whenever they see suspicious people transporting livestock, added Lt Gen Mene.
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