KEY POINTS
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Two Lesotho nationals were murdered during a violent livestock theft incident in Zamdela, Free State.
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Police found that 23 sheep and 25 goats, valued at approximately R150,000, were stolen.
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Authorities are appealing to the public for information and are treating the case as a top priority.
A brutal livesstock theft incident in Zamdela, Free State, has left two Lesotho nationals dead, sparking an intense police investigation and urgent calls for public assistance.
The incident unfolded on Wednesday when police responded to reports of gunfire at kraals situated near the R549 road.
Upon arrival, officers discovered the bodies of two African males, aged between 25 and 35, inside two separate shacks on the property. “When our members arrived at the scene, they found the two shepherds’ lifeless bodies in two separate shacks,” confirmed police spokesperson Sergeant Josephine Rani. Emergency services personnel declared both victims dead at the scene, with fatal injuries sustained to their upper bodies.
Initial investigations have linked the murders directly to a high-value livestock theft. “Further investigation revealed that a significant number of livestock was taken during this violent attack,” Rani said.
Authorities link murders to R150,000 livestock theft
Investigators determined that approximately 23 sheep and 25 goats, with a combined estimated value of R150,000, were stolen during the attack. Police believe the theft was highly organized, suggesting the involvement of a criminal syndicate targeting rural communities for financial gain.
“We believe the murder of these two shepherds is directly connected to the theft of these animals,” added Rani.
The Free State’s Serious Violent Crime, Murder, and Robbery Unit is leading the investigation and has made a public appeal for information that could aid in identifying the suspects. “Anyone with information regarding the murder and stock theft should contact Detective Sergeant Ivy Maisa on 076 676 1473 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111,” urged Rani, emphasizing that tips can also be submitted anonymously through the MySAPS App.
The Citizen reports that Authorities have prioritized the case not only due to the violent loss of life but also because of the significant economic impact the stock theft has on local farmers.
Livestock theft remains a persistent challenge in South Africa’s rural areas, often crippling small-scale farming operations and threatening food security in affected communities.
The Free State, in particular, has seen an alarming rise in violent stock theft incidents, prompting renewed calls from agricultural organizations for stronger policing and harsher penalties for perpetrators.
As police work around the clock to track down those responsible, community members are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity in their areas. The SAPS has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that those behind these heinous crimes are brought to justice swiftly.
