admin
Crime Reporter
CASES of cattle rustling declined by 33 percent last year with over 6 600 stolen compared to nearly 10 000 in 2013. Police recorded 3 167 cases of cattle rustling in 2014. In 2013, 9 806 cattle were stolen countrywide while 4 339 cases were recorded during the same period. “The number of cattle stolen last year decreased by 33 percent countrywide, from 9 806 in 2013 to 6 618. The number of cases reported last year dropped by 20 percent from 4 339 to 3 167,” said police anti-stock theft national co-ordinator Senior Assistant Commissioner Bernard Dumbura.
Snr Asst Comm Dumbura attributed the decline to police campaigns and co-operation by the public.
He said police recovered 2 621 cattle last year.
Snr Asst Comm Dumbura said police had embarked on campaigns to conscientise society on stocktheft.
Some of the campaigns and operations launched by the police last year include “Chengetedzai Zvipfuyo/Nakanelani Izifuyo”, branding campaign, “Operation Nyama Yabvepi”, “Kwete Mombe Mumigwagwa” and “Operation Eradicate Cattle Rustlers Market”.
During the first half of 2014, over 9 600 suspected rustlers were arrested countrywide.
This was a decrease by 28 percent compared to the same period in 2013.
Between January and June last year, police handled 1 668 cases compared to 2 332 in 2013.
Stocktheft is rife in the Midlands and Masvingo provinces.
Online Reporter