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Ray Bande, Senior Reporter
VILLAGERS in Marange are fretting over the sudden increase in cattle rustlers pouncing on their livestock.
Cattle are being stolen and slaughtered at several homesteads with carcasses being left in the open after skinning in areas that include Bambazonke, Chatambudza, Masvaure, Chiadzwa, Mutsago, Chigonda, Tsaisi and Dhaure.
A villager in Masvuare community, Mr Desire Chikotora, said: “A vehicle was recently spotted with carcasses dripping blood. A shrub was tied at the back to cover the tracks. We tried to make follow ups with relevant security agents, but it appears the perpetrators are well connected. We are losing our cattle in big numbers to these rustlers. We really want to urge higher offices to intervene.”
Ms Miriam Sibanda of the same village, said: “It is sad that our plea for more effort to combat cattle rustling is falling on deaf ears. The trend is not good for the country since it affects our efforts to increase our herd as a community and as a nation.”
Manicaland provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Luxson Chananda, said: “We are aware of some cases that have been going on in that area and investigations are in progress. However, in terms of reported cases, the figures we have indicate a reduction compared to the same period last year. However, we will continue monitoring the situation with the aim of curtailing cattle rustling.”
Online Reporter