MATABELELAND livestock farmers have called for stiffer penalties against cattle rustlers, saying the suspects should not be considered for presidential amnesty.
They said this while giving a token of appreciation to a member of the Nkulumane neighbourhood watch committee, Shepherd Ncube, yesterday, after he foiled cattle rustling.
Ncube was honoured for his role in apprehending a suspect, Bhekilizwe Nyathi, who was caught with five slaughtered stolen cattle last month.
He received a certificate of excellence from the police, while farmers contributed US$700 and R6 000 as tokens of appreciation.
Speaking on behalf of the Matabeleland Farmers Guide, Meli Ndlovu said cattle rustlers should not be given bail or considered for amnesty.
“As farmers, we are saddened by losing our livestock and appreciate the effort that the police would have put in, as they apprehend the thieves,” Ndlovu said.
“We are appealing to the officials that cattle rustlers should not get any bail, or be considered for amnesty.”
Hope Fountain board chairmperson Dingiswayo Chatagwe echoed similar sentiments.
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“We continue losing cattle everyday. Cattle rustlers are on us. I had over 60 goats and today, I own about 11,” Chatagwe said.
“Just like the farmer who lost the five cattle, in total, he has lost over 20 cattle to thieves. As we are approaching the Christmas holidays, our area is in danger because of our proximity.”
Matabeleland South farmer Sanatiel Sibanda said the suspects often boasted of being close to powerful individuals after they get released.
“These thieves should not be released from jail because they come back to the society confident for their “hilarious” actions and drinking with their friends, ... some crimes,” Sibanda said.
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