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Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, Gwanda Correspondent
POLICE have launched a manhunt for two Gwanda men who are suspected to have stolen eight head of cattle.

Matabeleland South provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Philisani Ndebele said the two suspects, Prince Vusa Dube of Matshibilika Village under Chief Marupi and Celani Moyo of Nkubinto area under Chief Masuku sent the stolen cattle whose brand marks had been tampered with to an abattoir for slaughtering.

He said five of the recovered cattle had been handed back to their owner. He urged members of the public to come forward and identify the remaining three that are still housed at the police farm.

“We intercepted eight stolen cattle at the Heads and Hooves Abattoir in Gwanda on November 29. These cattle were brought in to the abattoir by Prince Vusa Dube and Celani Moyo. They are both cattle buyers.

“We have launched a manhunt for these two men as they are suspects in this case and they need to assist police with investigations.

“As police we appeal to anyone who can assist us with information on their whereabouts to contact any police station near them. At the same time we call on members of the public to come and identify the remaining three cattle,” he said.

Insp Ndebele said five of the cattle that had been identified were among 24 cattle that were reported to have been stolen from West Nicholson in November.

He said the suspects tampered with the cattle brand marks and put theirs on top of the original ones in order to conceal the crime.

Insp Ndebele urged members of the public to report early any stock theft cases.

“As police we urge people to make a report as soon as possible when they realise that their cattle have been stolen.

“In addition they have to closely monitor their cattle when they are grazing.

“Some people leave their cattle to graze unattended and stock thieves take advantage to steal them from grazing areas,” he said.

Insp Ndebele said members of the public with information on the case could call Gwanda hotline 20139 or call Sgt Mutero on 0717 180 964.

@DubeMatutu