Precila Takabvirakare
Gutu district hosted the provincial launch of 2022 anti-stock theft campaign at Mushayavanhu Secondary School on October 12 in ward 35 under Chief Nyamandi.
The campaign was moving under the theme ‘National herd, our herd- livestock: our wealth is our concern’.
It aimed to create collaboration between farmers, government stakeholders and the police to fight against stock theft.
Speaking at the event, Officer Commanding Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Masvingo Province Commissioner David Mahoya said the province has recorded several cases of stock theft which is very worrisome so they are looking forward to collaboration between famers, government stakeholders and the police in fighting it.
“We decided to have this event today because we are really worried with number of stock theft cases that Masvingo province has recorded so far. Those people are very smart, they target specific households who they know have a lot livestock and to us it shows that those people have strong connections with some of the members of the community. So I encourage you to give us information on those people who are doing that because I know that you know them, do not hesitate to call us,” said Mahoya.
Giving statistical evidence, Commissioner Mahoya said cases which involve all livestock stolen this year are 528 as compared to 331 as of last year which shows 60% a sharp increase.
“As for stolen cattle specifically this year, the province recorded 202 cases and last year recorded 264 cases.
“Also this year, a total number of 69 accused persons were arrested as compared to last year where 68 people were arrested.
“The current figures are too high. Cattle is our economic backbone as Zimbabweans so we have to safeguard them very well We have an anti- stock theft unit in the district, work with them and give them tip offs if you have any information about stock theft don’t hesitate to call us we will respond,” he added.
He also gave a warning to those police officers who have a tendency of clearing cattle in their offices without visiting the sites to stop that manner and do the proper clearance as they are expected to do.
He concluded by encouraging the community to have brand names for their cattle for easy identification in case anything happens and the police get hold of them.
