Pretoria - Stock theft should be given the same level of priority and attention as cash heists in the fight against crime, says Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Deputy Minister General Bheki Cele.
“Livestock farming contributes a significant percentage to food security, job creation and economic growth, and therefore, as government, we will ensure that we support the industry accordingly," said the Deputy Minister.
He was addressing the Eastern Cape Prevention of Stock Theft Forum in Queenstown.
The forum was attended by the Eastern Cape MEC for Rural Development and Agrarian Reform Mlibo Qhoboshiyane, stakeholders in livestock farming, representatives from the traditional leadership, SAPS and victims of stock theft in the province.
Another issue discussed at the meeting was that of cross-border stock theft involving neighbouring countries such as Lesotho.
General Cele made a commitment to elevate the matter and engage with the political leadership of the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster in decisively dealing with the matter.
The Deputy Minister Cele also committed to arranging an urgent meeting with Lesotho so as to address this matter.
"Police statistics indicate a sudden increase in stock theft over the past few weeks and we strongly suspect that criminals are taking advantage of the political instability in Lesotho to serve their selfish interests.
“It is therefore imperative for the two countries to join efforts in bringing the stock theft challenge to its knees," said General Cele.
A national Imbizo will be held soon to address rural safety challenges in the country.
"This level of engagement with organised structures in farming must be elevated and bring everybody on board. Stock theft is at an increase because there is a market out there. This must be discouraged and culprits must face the full force of the law,” said Cele. –SAnews.gov.za
