Limpopo man arrested after police find him with 14 suspected stolen cattle - IOL
A 51-year-old man from Limpopo has been arrested on suspicion of stock theft.
A 51-year-old man faces criminal charges for allegedly stealing cattle.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Limpopo's Capricorn District arrested the man on November 11 after receiving information that he was keeping suspected stolen livestock at a homestead in Mentz, Mshongo Section.
The Polokwane Stock Theft Unit, Makweng Task Team, and Polokwane Local Criminal Record Centre (LCRC) were then dispatched to the suspect's home to investigate the alleged stock theft.
Upon arrival at the homestead, police found the suspect in possession of 14 head of cattle. When police questioned him about the cattle, he failed to provide proof of lawful ownership.
He told police the cattle were brought to his property by two men, whom police say they have been unable to trace or locate.
Police immediately arrested the suspect for possession of suspected stolen cattle.
He is expected to appear in the Mankweng Magistrate’s Court.
SAPS spokesperson Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba said police investigations are continuing. Mashaba also told IOL that the cattle had not yet been returned to their original owner. She also noted that the cattle had not been branded, which could make it difficult to identify the rightful owner.
While stock theft can be hard to prevent when criminals are motivated to steal, police have advised livestock owners on steps that may help identify and recover stolen animals.
Cattle owners are encouraged to implement and maintain a livestock register to track all owned stock.
Owners are also urged to brand their livestock in accordance with the Animal Identification Act. Livestock branding includes ear tags, tattoos, and microchips, which can help you track and identify your animals in case of theft
SAPS said cases can fail when ownership or livestock documentation cannot be proved. Mashaba also urged owners to ensure their cattle have a herder at all times.
Police also encourage owners to report stock theft incidents immediately to the nearest police station and to cooperate with the local SAPS and the Stock Theft Units. Community members are also urged to report stray livestock to police immediately.
