Agriculture
Free State authorities urge farmers to strengthen stock theft measures─── ZENANDE MPAME 12:20 Thu, 05 Mar 2026
Free State authorities say stronger cooperation between farmers, communities, and law enforcement is critical in tackling stock theft.
Stock theft continues to threaten rural livelihoods and the agricultural economy. Police and provincial government are calling for improved livestock marking, faster reporting of theft, and greater vigilance from communities to close the gaps criminals exploit.
The provincial government is working on improving cross-border collaboration and expanding specialised policing units to curb this crime, particularly along the Lesotho border, where stock theft is most prevalent.
Police have urged farmers to ensure their livestock are clearly marked and identifiable. “Traditional ear tags or marks are often removed by criminals, making it difficult to trace animals back to their rightful owners,” said acting provincial police commissioner Maj. Gen. Aphathia Modise.
“Previously, transporting livestock between sunset and sunrise was prohibited, but the law has since been amended to allow travel at any time. This has made it difficult for police to verify ownership of animals during the night.
“When we check brand marks or ear markings at three o’clock in the morning, it becomes difficult to clearly see whether the mark belongs to a specific owner. The visibility of the branding on sheep or cattle is limited in the dark.” Criminals are taking advantage of this by transporting stolen livestock overnight.
To strengthen the fight against stock theft, police have established a satellite stock theft unit in Jacobsdal to serve communities where farmers previously had to travel long distances to report cases. This unit is expected to eventually become a fully-fledged stock theft investigation unit as demand for services grows.
MEC of community safety, roads and transport Jabu Mbalula said stock theft remains one of the priority crimes in the province’s crime prevention strategy. While crime statistics show only a slight increase in stock theft cases, he said the issue remains a serious concern, particularly along the Lesotho border.
“Our experience is that stock theft is more prevalent in border areas with Lesotho. Some livestock are moved across the border or transported as far as Gauteng, where they are sold.
“Plans are also underway for further engagement with authorities in Lesotho to strengthen cooperation in tackling cross-border livestock theft.”
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