Nationwide crackdown on stock theft, illegal meat trade

POLICE have launched a nationwide crackdown on stock theft and the illegal sale of meat, as the law enforcement agents move to dismantle organised syndicates targeting livestock farmers and unsuspecting consumers across the country.

The operation comes against a backdrop of rising stock theft cases, which continue to undermine the country’s livestock sector, a key pillar of the economy and rural livelihoods. Cattle in particular are not only a source of income, but also hold cultural and social significance in many communities across Zimbabwe.

In a statement, national police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the blitz is focused on enforcing strict compliance with laws governing livestock ownership, movement, slaughter and meat distribution, while also safeguarding public health.

Comm Nyathi said recent police statistics point to a worrying surge in cases involving cattle and goats, with well-coordinated syndicates targeting farms and rural areas.

“Investigations have revealed that stolen meat is often concealed in buckets and other containers, transported in vehicle boots or hidden compartments and sold in undesignated places such as open spaces, residential areas, informal markets and even outside supermarkets,” he said.

The illicit trade, Comm Nyathi said, is being sustained by both informal vendors and some formal businesses that fail to verify their suppliers.

“These illegal activities are not only prejudicing farmers and undermining the agricultural sector, but also exposing consumers to serious health risks due to the absence of proper inspection in order to ensure high hygiene standards,” he said.

Livestock regulations require that all animal movement be supported by valid veterinary permits and stock clearance certificates issued after physical inspection by veterinary officials and the police.

These measures are aimed at curbing theft and ensuring traceability.

Comm Nyathi warned that compliance will now be strictly enforced.
“All livestock movement must be supported by valid veterinary permits and properly issued stock clearance certificates. Animals must also undergo physical inspection by veterinary officials and the police before clearance is issued in order to verify ownership and prevent the movement of stolen stock,” he said.

Comm Nyathi said butchery operators are obliged to maintain detailed registers showing the source of meat, including supplier information and proof of lawful acquisition. Failure to comply or knowingly dealing in stolen meat will result in arrest and prosecution.

Abattoirs have also been directed to tighten their systems and ensure that livestock presented for slaughter is accompanied by valid police clearance and veterinary certification.

“As part of the ongoing operation, the police will conduct stop-and-search patrols and mount roadblocks targeting vehicles, buses and other transporters suspected of carrying illegal meat or stolen livestock,” said Comm Nyathi.
Inspections are also being intensified at both registered and unregistered abattoirs, butcheries, meat vendors, sausage producers and food outlets to verify the legality and origin of meat products on sale.

“As police, we want to emphasise that the sale of meat in undesignated places, including from buckets, open spaces and vehicle boots, is illegal and poses serious public health risks. Members of the public are urged to desist from buying meat from unverified sources and to prioritise purchasing from licensed and inspected outlets,” said Comm Nyathi.

He said anyone found contravening stock theft and public health laws, including transporters, buyers, vendors and suppliers, will be arrested without fear or favour.

Comm Nyathi called on citizens to play a proactive role by reporting suspicious livestock movements or illegal meat sales through the National Complaints Desk or their nearest police station.