Police bust tavern owner, six accomplices with suspected stolen sheep

Following the registration of two cases of 69 stolen sheep at the Hennenman police station, the police launched manhunt to find suspects on Monday, December 12.

According to the Lejweleputswa police spokesperson, Stephen Thakeng the two cases are said to have occurred at two separate farms, but both in Hennenman.

“The first case was of 32 stolen sheep and the second, of the other 37,” added Thakeng.

Given the close time frame between the two cases, the Hennenman police, along with Kroonstad and Welkom K9 Units, and the Stock and Theft and Endangered Species Unit followed all available leads regarding the two cases.

Whilst investigating, the police received information about sheep being cut into pieces at the back of a tavern in Bailey Street, Reitz Park, Welkom. The Lejweleputswa Task Team, led by lieutenant colonel Melanie Fouche, then approached the identified tavern premises.

“Upon arrival, they requested to search the premises, and found the following: a white Hyundai bakkie and a grey Ford Ranger with 15 sheep carcasses, and other four sheep that were still alive,” informed Thakeng.

Furthermore, other suspected stolen sheep were still being cut with a butchery saw at the back of the tavern.

A preliminary investigation revealed that the four alive sheep were seized. The owner of the farm where the sheep were stolen was called to the scene, who then identified the sheep as his property and the sheep were ultimately handed over to him.

All suspects are aged 37-53 comprised of the tavern owner and six other accomplices were arrested for possession of suspected stolen live stock.

“The case will now be under the the Odendaalsrus Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit for further investigation,” Thakeng stated.

The Lejweleputswa district commissioner, major general Lerato Molale, praised Reitz Park residents for trusting the police with sensitive information that led to arrests and seizure of stolen sheep.