Villagers from Sibambene in Esigodini last week foiled a midnight cattle robbery after confronting suspects who were slaughtering two cows.
Matabeleland South provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Chiratidzo Dube, told Southern Eye that the swift response by community members forced the suspects to flee the scene, abandoning the carcasses.
“Circumstances are that on September 27, at around 6pm, the complainant penned his herd of cattle,” Dube said.
“At approximately 11pm, the complainant, Herold Ndlovu of Sibambene village under Chief Mabhena, was awakened by villagers who saw the accused persons slaughtering two of his cows, each about seven years old.”
She said when the suspects were approached by the villagers, they fled, leaving the carcasses at the scene.
The total value of the stolen livestock is estimated at US$1 100.
Police have appealed to members of the public for information that may lead to the arrest of the suspects.
“We appeal to members of the public with information that can lead to the arrest of the suspects to contact the Zimbabwe Republic Police in Esigodini or any nearest police station,” Dube said.
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Gwanda Anti-Stock Theft Association (GASTA) chairman, Victor Sibanda, said they were working to establish structures up to the provincial level.
“We are deeply concerned as an association about what is happening in our communities,” he said.
“We are working around the clock to intensify security and conduct more operations and roadblocks in collaboration with the ZRP.”
Sibanda said GASTA was working to expand its coverage across the province by building structures at ward, district, and provincial levels.
“Very soon, GASTA will be launched in Umzingwane district, where there have been disturbing cases of slaughtered beasts being found in the forest,” he said.
“On October 4, we held a meeting with ZRP Guyu at Gohole village in ward 17, to map a way forward and strengthen our partnership in curbing crime.
“We are urging farmers to join GASTA so that it becomes easier to monitor livestock.”
Meanwhile, a Kensington resident, Vusi Silonda, is counting his losses after three of his cattle were stolen and slaughtered Last Thursday.
