By Maile Matsimela
On Thursday, 20 March, the South African Police Services (SAPS) held a meeting in Bloemfontein that brought all influential and progressive decision-makers and operatives in one room.
The hall was packed with stakeholders representing the farming community, Stock Theft Unit Commanders and other respective commanders from the Visible Policing environment, among others.
The meeting was also graced by the presence of the Minister of Police, Senzo Mchunu, and his deputy, Cassel Mathale.
National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola told the gathering the agricultural sector presents one of the greatest opportunities to significantly grow the South African economy and create jobs.
He said the sector has contributed so much to improving the growth of the economy and the SAPS therefore endeavours to ensure agricultural activities are conducted in a secure and safe environment.
“However, ladies and gentlemen, stock theft is a major issue in South Africa, particularly in rural areas where livestock farming is a key part of the economy. It affects commercial and subsistence farmers alike, leading to significant financial loss.
“As a result of this, in 2019 the SAPS revised the Rural Safety Strategy that was developed in 1999 to address crime in rural areas, which includes stock theft, farm attacks and general safety concerns,” said Masemola.
He elaborated that the key elements of the strategy include dedicated Rural Safety Units, community involvement and partnership, border security enhancements, as well as education and crime prevention awareness among others.
He said the SAPS has made great strides since the 2019 strategy with recent arrests highlighting ongoing efforts to combat this crime.
“In January 2025, one of our own, a police sergeant from the Eastern Cape’s Stock Theft Unit, was arrested for alleged fraud and theft of livestock, underscoring concerns about law enforcement involvement in such crimes.
“In another incident, six suspects were arrested in the Eastern Cape in September 2024 during an intelligence driven operation between Lady Grey and Aliwal North, which led to the recovery of cattle valued at R120 000.
“In the same month, a suspect was arrested near Itsoseng, Mahikeng by the Mahikeng Stock Theft and Endangered Species (STES) Unit. The suspect was found with 15 cattle worth R150 000 that had been rebranded with his mark,” said the general.
He added that these incidents reflect the ongoing challenges and efforts in addressing stock theft in South Africa.
He said the latest crime stats reveal a 4.5% reduction in stock theft, which is a welcome relief for farmers, communities and the agricultural sector.
“Although the percentage seems to be relatively small, we note the outcry of communities that farm livestock, particularly in the Free State, Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal and Limpopo, hence the urgent decision to host this engagement.
“The purpose of this ministerial engagement is to discuss the escalating problem of stock theft, review current intervention measures and explore additional strategies to combat this type of crime, which continues to have a devastating impact on local economies, communities and farmers.
“Addressing stock theft in South Africa requires a collaborative effort between law enforcement, farmers, communities and government agencies, strengthening rural safety strategies, improving law enforcement response and utilising technology for tracking and identification, which are key in reducing this crime,” explains the general.
He said farmers and communities must remain vigilant, report suspicious activities promptly, and work closely with stock theft units and community policing forums.
“By fostering strong partnerships and proactive prevention measures, we can protect livelihoods, strengthen food security and ensure a safer rural environment for all. So let us deliberate on the challenges surrounding stock theft, share best practices and identify actionable strategies to reduce its prevalence,” concluded Masemola.
