Tips to avoid farm stock theft, as four are arrested for murder

A Limpopo woman, her son and two cousins have been arrested for the brutal murder of Fumky Hlongwane over weekend, for allegedly stealing the accused woman’s goats.

POLICE CONDEMN BRUTAL MURDER

ALSO READ: Police officers arrested for stock theft and defeating the ends of justice

Hlongwane and his friend were allegedly kidnapped in his home by the four suspects. The pair was taken to a farm in Morarela in Sekhukhune, tied up and beaten with various objects including a hammer. The deceased’s friend was released and immediately reported the assault to police.

Police discovered the 35 year old victim laying on the ground unresponsive. He was later rushed to hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

Limpopo Police Commissioner has condemned the murder and labelled it a senseless and brutal.

ALSO READ: Mozambican national killed by mob over livestock theft accusation

“We keep on mentioning that taking law into your own hands is not a solution instead it causes unintended results”,says Hadebe.

The suspects will appear before the Groblersdal Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 19 June 2023, facing charges of kidnapping, assault with intend to do grievous bodily harm and murder committed.

CORRECTLY MARK YOUR ANIMALS IN CASE OF THEFT

ALSO READ: Three suspects BUSTED for LIVESTOCK theft

Police have given some tips to avoid stock which includes correctly marking the animals so you can easily identify them when stolen. According to police, a number of cases are lost in court due to identification issues.

• Implementing a livestock register
• Reporting all stock theft immediately
• Brand marking animals according to Animal Identification Act
• Reporting stray animals to police and;
• Working with SAPS and Stock Theft Units

According to SA Government website, it is compulsory to mark your animals if you own cattle, sheep, goats or pigs. If stolen, the animals through their marking will be traced back to their owners.

ALSO READ: Ex-employee arrested for torture and double murder at Klipfonteinhoek farm