Stock Theft on the Rise in Khutsong South Ext 4
A wave of stock theft has hit Khutsong South Ext 4, leaving small-scale farmers devastated and feeling helpless.
One farmer, who wishes to remain anonymous, had 15 cattle stolen by thieves who demanded money and livestock at gunpoint.
Despite opening a case with the police, no action has been taken, and the farmer is still waiting for justice.
The community is up in arms, demanding that the authorities take immediate action to address the scourge of stock theft.
“During apartheid, we had a special police station dedicated to stock theft, and it was effective,” said a local resident.
“But since it was closed down after 1994, stock theft has gone rampant. It’s like the thieves have carte blanche to steal our livestock.”
The Stock Theft Act of 1959 is clear: stock theft is a serious crime that carries hefty penalties. However, the lack of effective enforcement and the perceived lack of concern from the authorities have emboldened thieves, who are mostly Lesotho nationals.
“It’s easy to steal stock in Khutsong South Ext 4,” said another farmer. “The police are not doing their job, and our livestock are being taken away from us without any consequences. We need the authorities to take action and bring back the special police station for stock theft.”
The community is calling on the authorities to revive the special police station and to work closely with local farmers to combat stock theft. They also demand that the police take immediate action to recover the stolen livestock and bring the perpetrators to justice.
The branding of livestock is supposed to be a deterrent to stock thieves, but it seems to be having little effect. The community is demanding that the authorities take stronger measures to prevent stock theft and protect their livelihoods.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) is urged to take immediate action to address this issue and restore faith in the justice system. The community is waiting for justice, and it’s time for the authorities to act.
