Stock theft decreases by 33%

The number of cattle stolen this year decreased by 33 percent countrywide, from 9 806 in 2013 to 6 618, police have said.

In an interview, the Anti-stock theft national co-ordinator, police Senior Assistant Commissioner Bernard Dumbura, attributed the decline to police campaigns and co-operation by members of the public.

He said the number of cases reported this year dropped by 20 percent from 4339 to 3167.

"We recorded a significant decrease of cattle stolen, last year 9806 cattle were stolen and the number dropped to 6 618 showing a decrease of 33 percent," said Snr Asst Comm Dumbura.

He said during the year, they recovered 2621 cattle, recording a recovery rate of four percent. Snr Asst Comm Dumbura said throughout the year, police embarked on a number of campaigns to conscientise society on stock theft as well as patrols in the rural areas.

Some of the campaigns launched by the police include Nakanelani Izifuyo/ Chengetedzai Zvipfuyo, branding campaign, Operation Inyama Uyithethe ngaphi/Nyama Yabvepi, Hatshi izifuyo emgwaqweni/Kwete mombe mumigwagwa and operation eradicate cattle rustlers on the market.