Agri Gauteng, SAPS discuss ways to curb stock theft

Communication amongst all role players affected by the prevalence of stock theft, command and control, the effective prosecution and conviction of perpetrators of stock theft, legislature and more specifically the compliance with cattle and other stock marking regulations by farmers were amongst the topics discussed.

Convictions of stock theft is a concern

The apparent lack of deterrence of the current court findings and convictions with regard to stock theft was identified as a serious source of concern whilst the more effective use of modern technology in SAPS operations also received special attention. Conclusion was reached that all stakeholders such as business concerns linked to feeding lots, stock auctioneers, abattoirs and toll gate operators as well as all relevant government departments from national to local level need to become actively involved as they all are relevant in the fight against stock theft.

Agri Gauteng is once again calling on its members to ensure that their animals are marked in the prescribed manner as described in the legislation. Apart from transgression of the law when neglecting to do so, the fact of the matter is that one is liable for prosecution as well as rendering the fight against stock thieves fruitless by compounding the case of the SAPS in the conviction of stock theft perpetrators in a court of law.

Dirk Hanekom, the executive manager of Agri Gauteng, has expressed appreciation towards members of the Stock Theft Unit for the excellent cooperation with the farmers and the enthusiasm with which they perform their task.