Intelligence-driven operation arrests trio for live stock theft

On Thursday, 16 September 2021, police nabs three suspects after they receiving a tip-off about a planned live stock theft at a farm near Wesselsbron.

A joint team was assembled and a way-lay was conducted on Thursday, 16 September 2021, at 01:20, not far from the identified farm at Wesselsbron. At around 05:45, police officers spotted a white Mercedes Benz truck with 11 Bonsmara cattle on board. They approached and stopped the truck. Three African males jumped out of the truck and ran into the field.

They were chased and were all arrested. The trio is 33-35 years of age. A search was conducted on the suspects and three cellphones were seized.

11 Bonsmara cattle seized during the operation in Wesselsbron.

The 11 Bonsmara stolen cattle valued at R220 000 were positively pointed by the farmer and handed back to him.

Odendaalsrus Stock Theft and Endangered Species, Welkom Crime Intelligence, Smithfield Crime Intelligence, Welkom Public Order Policing Reaction Team and Rural Safety Coordinator of Wesselsbron were all involved in the apprehension of the three suspects.

The three suspects will appear on the 20 September 2021 in Wesselsbron Magistrate Court.

The District Commissioner of Lejweleputswa, Major General Lerato Molale, applauded this Intelligence driven operation which led to arrests and seizure of stolen live stock.