Chronicle Editor
Peter Matika – [email protected]
IN a significant breakthrough against cattle rustling activities in and around Bulawayo, police have successfully dismantled a cattle rustling syndicate, leading to the arrest of a 43 year-old suspect as well as the recovery of five carcasses worth US$2 250.
The operation, led by police in collaboration with residents and business organisations marks a crucial victory in the ongoing battle against livestock theft.
Bulawayo provincial police spokesperson Inspector Abednico Ncube, said Bhekilizwe Nyathi was arrested by police, while two other suspects that are part of the syndicate still at large.
“On 26 August 2024 around 11Am the informant was at work when he noticed a Blue Mazda pickup van with a white canopy. It was parked outside the yard at his work place. The informant went closer to see why the car was parked so suspiciously. While talking to the driver, he noticed that the car’s loading box was full of cattle carcasses,” said Insp Ncube.
“The informant demanded to see documents which authorize transportation of meat. The other two accused in the car persuaded the informant to accept a bribe so as not to raise alarm but the informant refused,” said Insp Ncube.
He said the trio then tried to flee and assaulted the informant with the back of the axe on the mouth.
“He then jumped on to the back of the van and held on to the canopy, as the accused tried to drive away,” said Insp Ncube.
He said members of the public gave chase until the driver of the vehicle stopped.
“They gave chase until the driver stopped the vehicle at Nkulumane 12 near Phekiwe River. They got off and started to run towards the bush. Members of the public assisted the informant to apprehend one of the accused and brought him to Nkulumane police station,” said Insp Ncube.
He said investigations revealed that the cattle were stolen from a farm in Hope Fountain.
More to follow…
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