Limpopo: On Friday, 25 April 2025, the community of Madutle village, located approximately 500 meters from the Botswana border, gathered for a Stock Theft Awareness event. The initiative was aimed at addressing the prevalent issue of stock theft in the region.
According to South African Police Service, the event commenced with Archie Bishop Molefe from Spiritual Crime Prevention leading a scripture reading and prayer. Mr. Pitso, the local Community Police Forum (CPF) Chairperson, outlined the event’s purpose and encouraged collaboration between the community and police to combat crime effectively.
The gathering saw participation from key figures, including Lehurutshe Acting Station Commander Captain Mayisela, representatives from the Departments of Health, Agriculture, Home Affairs, the Border Management Authority, the Chieftainship of the Bahurutshe Boora Moiloa, and the DiBOFA Farmers Union Association.
Lieutenant Colonel Tanke, Commander of the Lehurutshe Stock Theft and Endangered Species (STES) Unit, shared insights into the stock theft scenario, emphasizing the need for public education and timely crime reporting. He highlighted non-compliance with the Animal Identification Act, 2002, and the employment of illegal immigrants as factors contributing to the issue. Safety tips were also provided to attendees.
Mr. Mmusi Mokgotlhe of DiBOFA encouraged farmers to transition from traditional farming methods to commercial farming for better outcomes. The Provincial Deputy Chairperson of CPF, Mr. Rammotlana, urged the community to support the CPF, collaborate with police, and develop a community safety plan to address and mitigate crime effectively.