By Thys Khiba – A 30-year-old Thato Nhlapo is expected to appear before the Stilfontein Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, 26 April for being in possession of suspected stolen cattle.
This comes after Nhlapho appeared before the Stilfontein Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, 19 April 2023 and was remanded in custody until his next court appearance.
The 30-year-old suspect was arrested on Monday, 17 April, after a shepherd saw three males chasing two cows in an open field along the R509 road, close to Khuma.
“The shepherd contacted his employer who mobilised farmers in the area.
SAPS police
“Nlhapo was consequently arrested by the farmers and handed him over to the police,” said North West police spokesperson Colonel Adele Myburgh.
Police are still looking for the other two suspects who aren’t at large.
Myburgh confirmed initial investigations determined that the cattle belong to a Free State farmer.
“A total of five cattle were stolen from his farm, but two were found abandoned in the field, two were recovered from the suspects while one is still missing,” Myburgh said.
Meanwhile, three male suspects arrested by Stilfontein Stock Theft and Endangered Species (STES) Unit members on Thursday, 20 April for allegedly stealing a Nile crocodile.
Police went to an abandoned farm house where a 2,5m long Nile crocodile valued at R25 000-00 was discovered hidden under tree branches.
The three arrested male suspects who are between the ages of 20 and 35, are expected to appear before the Klerksdorp Magistrates’ Court today for contravention of the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act No. 10 of 2004).
“The accused’s court appearance emanates from their apprehension on Thursday afternoon, 20 April 2023, after Stilfontein Stock Theft and Endangered Species (STES) Unit members received information that a Nile crocodile was stolen from a crocodile farm in Hartebeesfontein,” said Myburgh.
The suspects were arrested and Police also seized a vehicle (bakkie) that was used in the commission of the crime. The crocodile was then returned to its rightful owner.
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