Cele wants stock theft to have same priority as cash heists

Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Deputy Minister General Bheki Cele wants stock theft to be given the same priority as cash heists because he says it represents major losses to farmers in South Africa. Image: GCIS

"Livestock farming contributes a significant percentage to food security, job creation and economic growth, and therefore, as government, we will ensure that we support the industry accordingly," said Cele.

He was addressing the Eastern Cape Prevention of Stock Theft Forum in Queenstown.

The forum was attended by the Eastern Cape MEC for Rural Development and Agrarian Reform Mlibo Qhoboshiyane, stakeholders in livestock farming, representatives from the traditional leadership, SAPS and victims of stock theft in the province.

Another issue discussed at the meeting was that of cross-border stock theft involving neighbouring countries such as Lesotho.

General Cele made a commitment to elevate the matter and engage with the political leadership of the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster in decisively dealing with this form of theft. He also gave a commitment to hold an urgent meeting with Lesotho to address this matter.

"Police statistics indicate a sharp increase in stock theft over the past few weeks and we strongly suspect that criminals are taking advantage of the political instability in Lesotho to serve their own selfish interests," Cele claimed.

"It is imperative for the two countries to bring stock theft to its knees," he added.

"This level of engagement with organised structures in farming must be elevated and bring everybody on board. Stock theft is on the rise because there is a market out there. This must be discouraged and culprits must face the full force of the law," said Cele.