47-YEAR-OLD MAN ACCUSED OF STEALING HIS FATHER’S CATTLE GRANTED BAIL

The 47-year-old accused, Jacob Moselakgomo facing a charge of stock theft has appeared before Mudutjana Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 11 March 2024, for formal bail application following his court appearance on Friday, 08 March.He was granted R3000,00 bail and his case was postponed to 17 April 2024 for further police investigations.

The incident, which occurred in Mokgoaneng village in Matlerekeng between 22 and 23 August 2023, came to light after the complainant reported 17 of his cattle stolen from his kraal valued at approximately R150 000, 00. According to witnesses, the cattle were seen loaded into an unidentified vehicle.

Subsequent to investigations led by the dedicated officers of SAPS Marble Stock Theft Endangered Species Unit, the complainant’s son was positively linked to the theft of all 17 cattle.

Police were able to recover five of the stolen cattle on Thursday, 07 March 2024, in Jane Furse, where the farmer explained that the suspect sold them to him. The complainant was able to identify them through the brand mark.

The Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe said: “This case highlights the importance of community members coming forward with information about any criminal activities, regardless of the individuals involved. Farmers are once more reminded of the importance of brand marking their livestock, which plays a pivotal role in the police investigations.”

Police investigation continues.