For a real impact on stock theft, it is now necessary to shift to the next gear.
The current situation is already unacceptable, and the reality is that with the festive season around the corner, stock theft numbers will increase.
Crime statistics for from 1 April to 30 June 2021 show an 8% decrease in stock theft. However, do not let this statistic fool you.
Although there were decreases in stock theft in six provinces, the cases increased in the Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, and Mpumalanga. Overall, however, it must be borne in mind that farmers have recently lost more and more trust in the police, and no longer report cases out of sheer frustration with the lack of action.
So, the decline is somewhat deceiving.
“Farmers have lost confidence in the police and not for no reason. Many of the police officers are part of the syndicates. Livestock theft is a large, organised industry with big money at stake,” says Mr. Mort Mortassagne, TLU SA Chairperson: Safety Committee.
“Currently only about 20% of the cases are reported and a meagre 4% of the cases are completed successfully. Chances of catching the thugs are already so slim and then the forensic work on stock theft is not up to standard. There is also a DNA sample database that is outstanding with about 400 000 samples … and in the meantime the thugs continue to steal.”
Mr. Mortassagne adds that in South Africa 2-5% of the calves are stolen. “This is a very hot region for stock theft. My calves already have 10 brand marks!”
Currently, one of the main concerns and challenges is the number of cases reported versus the number of stock thieves convicted by the courts.
Mr. Ronnie Schilling, TAU SA Regional Manager: East and Natal was recently part of TLU SA, Mpumalanga Agriculture and AFASA’s discussions with the Provincial Commissioner of Mpumalanga where livestock theft and other priority crimes were discussed.
“It is well known that the branding of livestock is compulsory in South Africa in terms of Act 6 of 2002. TLU SA takes note of the steps taken by the police and we are obviously grateful. We will support the police where we can,” said Mr. Schilling said.
“Is it too much to ask the government and the police to make a greater impact in the fight against stock theft? Is the penalty for stock theft a deterrent at all? It demoralises farmers if they cannot make an impact on the problem on their own or with the help of the police.”
Mr Schilling also refers to the number of livestock stolen at one time is of particular concern.
“Farmers will have to be prepared to put in place extra measures during the festive season to prevent thefts. They must – and this is crucial – integrate into their local security structures. Should they report cases, they must keep in constant contact with the investigating officer until the case is taken to court.”
