Verena – Authorities have seized a minimum of 26 cattle suspected to be stolen in Verena, near KwaMhlanga, Mpumalanga, and one person has been “taken in for questioning.”

This operation was conducted as part of an anti-stock theft initiative led by the Mpumalanga Acting Police Commissioner, Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi, on Thursday, (2 January 2025).

To aid in the operation, police employed a helicopter.

Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi indicated that several cattle owners received fines for inadequate branding of their livestock.

The acting police commissioner from Mpumalanga pointed out that livestock theft is a prevalent problem in KwaMhlanga and its surrounding areas, as well as throughout the province.

“We are pleased with the progress achieved during the operation and assure the public that similar efforts will be carried out in other areas to combat stock theft,” stated Major General Mkhwanazi.

He urged law-abiding citizens to continue cooperating with the police by reporting any criminal activities.

“We take the grievances of livestock owners very seriously and have acted decisively to address this issue once and for all,” added Major General Mkhwanazi.