Upington police recover R200,000 worth of stolen sheep, arrest two suspects

THE SOUTH African Police Service (SAPS) in Upington has arrested two suspects, aged 33 and 35, after they were found in possession of suspected stolen livestock on Wednesday, December 3.

The arrests followed a complaint received by the Kenhardt police on December 2 regarding a large number of Meatmaster sheep, valued at over R200,000, that were reported stolen from a local farm.

A joint operation by the Upington Stock Theft and Endangered Species Investigation Unit and Paballelo SAPS members led to the discovery of 68 sheep matching the description provided by the complainant. The animals were found hidden in a zinc structure near Upington. The complainant positively identified the sheep and confirmed their ear tattoo marks.

Further investigation led to the arrest of the two suspects at a residence in Paballelo, where they were found in possession of three carcasses bearing identification marks similar to those provided by the complainant. A truck believed to have been used in the commission of the alleged crime was also seized.

The suspects were charged with the theft of livestock and are expected to appear in the Upington Magistrates' Court soon.

The ZF Mgcawu district commissioner, Major-General Monica Sebili, praised the SAPS members for their swift response and the successful recovery of the suspected stolen livestock.

“The members are to be commended for their dedication and hard work in ensuring that the perpetrators are brought to justice,” she said.