Three suspects have been arrested following the alleged theft of 25 sheep valued at approximately R38 800 from a farm in Van Zylsrus, Northern Cape.
By Lebogang Mashala, editor, African Farming
The arrests followed a swift response by the South African Police Service’s (SAPS) Kuruman Stock Theft and Endangered Species (STES) Unit after it received information about the theft on Friday, 14 August 2026.
Vehicle linked to theft intercepted
According to police, the sheep were allegedly stolen between Thursday evening, 13 August, and Friday morning, 14 August.
Information about a bakkie and trailer allegedly used during the theft was shared with the Kuruman STES Unit after the vehicle was believed to be travelling towards Kuruman.
Members of the unit spotted a vehicle matching the description in Kuruman and stopped it. Four men were found inside the bakkie, while one sheep was discovered at the back of the vehicle, covered with nets.
Police said three of the occupants attempted to flee, but one suspect was apprehended at the scene.
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24 slaughtered sheep recovered
The ensuing investigation led police to an abattoir in Olifantshoek, where 24 sheep were recovered that had already been slaughtered.
Together with the live sheep found in the vehicle, all 25 stolen animals were successfully recovered. The estimated value of the livestock is R38 800.
A 61-year-old man, who was allegedly driving the vehicle, and a 33-year-old man were arrested. A third suspect, aged 35, was subsequently arrested in Van Zylsrus.
Police are continuing efforts to locate the fourth suspect who managed to evade arrest.
The bakkie and trailer allegedly used in the commission of the crime were also seized and will form part of the investigation.
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Stock theft remains a priority
The three suspects are expected to appear in court soon on charges relating to stock theft.
Acting District Commissioner of the John Taolo Gaetsewe District, Brigadier Kenneth Baloyi, commended members of the Kuruman STES Unit for their swift response, which resulted in the arrests and recovery of the stolen livestock.
Baloyi reaffirmed that combating stock theft remains a priority in the district. “Efforts will be intensified to ensure perpetrators are held accountable,” police said.
The successful recovery comes amid continued concern among livestock farmers about the impact of stock theft on farming operations and rural livelihoods.
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