Sparta Beef says a case of fraud is being investigated after cattle from the Western Cape, suspected of being infected with foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), were delivered to its feedlot over the weekend.
By Alet Joubert and Alani Janeke, senior journalists at African Farming and Landbouweekblad
It appears that a veterinary health form declaring the cattle healthy – delivered on Saturday and Sunday to Sparta’s feedlot on its Alma farm near Clocolan – was falsified. The veterinarian whose name appears on the documents has denied ever inspecting the animals, Sparta says in a statement.
“According to the documentation received from the supplier, all biosecurity requirements were met. There were declarations from two farmers confirming that the cattle came from their respective farms, both of which maintain closed herds. A veterinary health form also indicated that a veterinarian had inspected (mouth-checked) the animals and declared them healthy.”
Also read: ‘Prosecutions may follow’ – Steenhuisen after FMD scare in Western Cape
FMD Lesions Found
Sparta says the cattle were inspected and mouth-checked according to the company’s standard biosecurity procedures after being offloaded. Lesions suggesting possible foot-and-mouth disease were found on some of the animals. The state veterinarian was called immediately and shared concern about the lesions, after which blood samples were taken. Test results are still pending.
Sparta contacted the veterinarian named in the documentation, who confirmed that she had never examined the cattle nor signed the documents. This has led to the launch of a fraud investigation.
To prevent any possible spread of the disease, Sparta – with the approval of the state veterinarian – decided to vaccinate all cattle on its Alma farm against FMD. The vaccination process is already underway.
The feedlot said it is confident that this “swift and responsible action” will help prevent any possible spread of the disease.
Also read: Possible cases of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) put three Western Cape farms under quarantine
Test Results Expected Soon
The Western Cape Foot-and-Mouth Disease Working Group – made up of representatives from various industries and role players in the red meat value chain and government institutions – met on Wednesday, and expects test results within five to seven days.
The group has appealed to the provincial Department of Transport to investigate livestock transporters and ensure that the correct documentation is carried and properly maintained.
“There are still many uncertainties about the measures to be implemented if a positive test result is confirmed,” the working group says in a statement.
“Through continuous communication and information sharing among all stakeholders, we aim to address these uncertainties. We call on all stakeholders and producers to support us in this effort. It is clear that biosecurity measures require more serious attention.”
Also read: FMD | KZN farmers set up their own control points (and more to follow)
Working Group’s Requests to Farmers
The working group made the following requests to farmers and stakeholders in the livestock industry:
- Each farm’s biosecurity situation is different, so it is important to discuss with your neighbours what steps each of you will take to protect your area.
- In addition to disinfecting trucks entering the farm, producers should also disinfect bakkies that drive around on the property.
- Farm workers should receive information and training about the possible spread of the disease.
- Maintain regular contact with state veterinary services as well as private veterinarians in your area.
- Use the Department of Agriculture’s questionnaire to ensure you are using the correct documentation.
The working group also stressed the importance of verifying that all information, messages and statements about FMD come from reliable and confirmed sources and platforms. “We urge all producers to stay connected with organised agriculture and their industry organisations to remain informed about the FMD situation. Your involvement strengthens our collective response, and ensures we speak with one voice.”
