Ex-farm manager up for stealing 100 cattle, 38 Boer goats

Police have arrested a former farm manager in connection with the suspected theft of 100 cattle and 38 Boer goats from a farm in Mvurwi, in a case that has shocked the local agricultural community.

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed the arrest of Darlington Mapfumo, who was employed as a farm manager at the time the livestock went missing.

ZRP national spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the alleged theft occurred over several years, spanning from 2021 to April 2025.

"On May 4, 2025, police in Norton arrested Darlington Mapfumo in connection with a case of stock theft which occurred in Mvurwi between 2021 and April 2025," said Comm Nyathi.

Mapfumo is accused of systematically stealing 100 cattle and 38 Boer goats, with the total value of the livestock pegged at approximately US$56,840.

So far, authorities have managed to recover 20 of the 100 stolen cattle. Investigations are ongoing as police work to track down the remaining livestock and determine whether additional individuals were involved in the scheme.

Stock theft remains a serious crime in Zimbabwe, particularly in rural farming communities, where it undermines livelihoods and threatens food security.

The ZRP has urged farmers to enhance security measures and routinely audit their livestock holdings to detect any irregularities early.

Comm Nyathi also appealed to members of the public with information that could assist in recovering the remaining animals to come forward.

Mapfumo is expected to appear in court soon to face formal charges of stock theft.