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Mthabisi Tshuma, Gwanda Correspondent
POLICE in Matabeleland South have bemoaned delays in reporting cases of stock theft, calling on members of the public to notify them as soon as they realise that their livestock is missing.

Matabeleland South provincial police spokesperson Inspector Philisani Ndebele made the remarks as he confirmed a case where a Gwanda man reported his 13 herd of cattle stolen, a year after commission of the crime.

The herd had a total value of $13 900.

Insp Ndebele said the complainant, Madhume Dube from Shanyaugwe only made a report after spotting one of the stolen beasts that had been rebranded.

“There is a stock theft case that was filed a year later after the cattle went missing. Sometime in February 2017, the complainant from Gawa area in Shanyaugwe drove 13 beasts, four heifers, five cows, three steers and one ox to the grazing area. The cattle were never seen again.

“The complainant only filed a report at the nearest police station on March 4, 2018 after he saw one of the cattle at Gawa area.

“Members of the public should desist from reporting missing livestock or any cases for that matter, after a long period as it makes it a bit difficult for the police to do thorough investigations and to recover the stolen property.”

Insp Ndebele said they have previously encountered cases where complainants report crimes way after they have been committed.

He urged members of the public to adhere to the branding season as they approach winter.

“As we approach winter this is now the branding season and those rearing livestock should take this into consideration. We have the universal brand mark and as the police we are here to help curb stock theft.

“The universal brand mark applies to those with brand mark certificates and are failing to forge their own brand marks. Those who fall under this category are advised to approach their nearest police station where they will be assisted,” he said. — @mthabisi_mthire.