Potchefstroom – An anti-crime police operation has resulted in the arrest of 14 suspects for a variety of crimes and the seizing of suspected stolen cars worth over R3 million and livestock valued at more than R300 000.
Police spokesperson, Colonel Adéle Myburgh said as a result of the operation, “14 males, aged between 26 and 56, were arrested”.
Thirteen suspects were held for stock theft and illegal hunting-related crimes, while one was nabbed for theft of motor vehicles.
Colonel Myburgh said the joint operation was carried out last week between Wednesday, (14 February 2024), and Friday, (16 February 2024), by various units under the SA Police Service Serious and Violent Crime Investigation section.
The operations were aimed at addressing crimes such as stock theft, vehicle theft, hijacking, and murder.
“During the operations, 35 livestock, which included 21 cattle and 13 goats with an estimated value of R326 000 were confiscated,” said Colonel Myburgh.
“Additionally, seven different types of vehicles and two trailers… [collectively] worth R3 535 000 were seized.”
Colonel Myburgh said the operation also led to the issuing of 85 fines for contravention of the Animal Identification Act, 2002, and the Meat Safety Act, 2000, amounting to R16 800.
“In order to ensure compliance with various legislation, 42 kraals, five farms, and five auctions were visited and in the process, 60 goats and 155 cattle were checked,” said Colonel Myburgh.
“Subsequent to the execution of these actions, seven inquiries were registered.
“The teams also conducted compliance inspection by visiting a chop shop where 90 vehicles were checked.
“Moreover, two scrap yards, two backyard mechanics, and a panel beating business were visited.”
These actions resulted in the registration of 24 inquiries.
“As part of engagement with members of the community and stock theft-related matters, three awareness activities were held in Reivilo, Mahikeng, and Stilfontein,” said Colonel Myburgh.
“The Provincial Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena thanked all the members and other role players involved in the operations to ensure the arrest of alleged perpetrators and the recovery of livestock and vehicles.”
