A 32-year-old Northern Cape man was sentenced to three years’ imprisonment following his conviction for livestock theft at Marseilles Farm in Victoria West.
A 32-YEA-OLD Northern Cape man, Freddie Jacobs, was sentenced to three years’ imprisonment following his conviction for livestock theft at Marseilles Farm in Victoria West. The incident occurred on April 14.
Provincial police spokesperson Sergeant Timothy Sam stated that during the trial in the Victoria West Magistrate’s Court, the investigating officer, Detective Sergeant Winston Jullies, presented evidence showing that Jacobs was caught in the act and subsequently arrested.
Sam urged farmers to maintain their fences and gates, ensuring that any holes were promptly repaired to prevent similar incidents.
“Farmers should be particularly watchful when there is a full moon, over weekends and at the end or beginning of a month when stock theft is common,” Sam advised.
“Owners should also brand and count their livestock at least once a week and keep an updated stock register.”
Sam encouraged farmers to invest in technology such as CCTV cameras to curb stock theft.
“Owners of livestock are advised to make use of helplines created through co-operation between the SAPS, local farmers’ unions and communities and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.“
Sam further recommended that farm owners refrain from hiring undocumented persons as employees and to keep detailed records of their labourers.
“This can assist the police with the investigation of stock theft. Anyone with information about illegal stock theft activities can contact the police on 08600 10111, use the MySAPS app, or get in touch with their local stock theft unit,” Sam concluded.
