News / National
Chiredzi man jailed 9 years for stock theft
20 Feb 2026 at 17:03hrs |
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The Chiredzi Magistrates' Court has sentenced Emmanuel Runhare (36) of Village 1 Maware, Mkwasine, to nine years in prison after he was convicted of stealing livestock from a local farmer.
The court heard that in September 2025, Runhare went to Oscro Farm in Chiredzi, where he stole 29 cattle and five goats.
On 20 January, police detectives received a tip‑off and visited the offender’s homestead posing as buyers. During the operation, they observed that several cattle had tampered brand marks. At least 13 animals were identified as belonging to the complainant.
Runhare allegedly offered to sell the cattle for US$450 each. Detectives returned the following day and arrested him after he failed to explain the altered brand marks. He also produced a stock card that was no longer recognised in the veterinary system.
The Veterinary Department later inspected the livestock and confirmed the complainant’s ownership.
The stolen cattle were valued at US$15,615, of which US$7,000 worth was recovered. All five goats, valued at US$250, were also recovered.
Stock theft remains a serious offence that deprives farmers of their livelihoods.
The court heard that in September 2025, Runhare went to Oscro Farm in Chiredzi, where he stole 29 cattle and five goats.
On 20 January, police detectives received a tip‑off and visited the offender’s homestead posing as buyers. During the operation, they observed that several cattle had tampered brand marks. At least 13 animals were identified as belonging to the complainant.
The Veterinary Department later inspected the livestock and confirmed the complainant’s ownership.
The stolen cattle were valued at US$15,615, of which US$7,000 worth was recovered. All five goats, valued at US$250, were also recovered.
Stock theft remains a serious offence that deprives farmers of their livelihoods.
Source - Byo24news
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