Villagers in Sivomo, Nkayi, are calling for stronger enforcement at police roadblocks to address the alarming rise in stock theft.
They report that their livestock are being stolen at an increasing rate, leaving them both economically devastated and emotionally drained.
The community believes that without stricter enforcement, the thieves will continue to evade detection, leaving the village in a constant state of loss.
Speaking to CITE, the leader of the stock theft prevention group Azibuye EMasisweni, Country Moyo, said they are appealing for more roadblocks to curb the movement of stolen livestock.
“We are appealing for more roadblocks on the Nkayi road to curb stock theft. We are receiving numerous reports of stolen livestock in our communities. Ten cows and four oxen have disappeared, and last week alone, 13 cattle went missing. We managed to intercept 21 cows heading to different abattoirs, while police also confiscated 27 stolen animals. We are appealing for stronger roadblock enforcement,” Moyo said.
Moyo explained that the thieves are using the Nkayi-Bulawayo and Victoria Falls roads, avoiding existing roadblocks.
“They are now aware of the routes to evade these checks. These criminals are working with wealthy individuals who provide trucks to transport the cattle during the night,” he added.
Moyo warned that if authorities do not intervene soon, the community might take matters into their own hands.
“We are urging the law to step in before something drastic happens when these thieves are caught by the community,” he said.
“We are told that livestock is under quarantine, yet these thieves continue transporting cattle daily with the help of those with money. We are calling for the law to act before an unfortunate incident occurs.”
Matabeleland North police spokesperson, Inspector Glory Banda, acknowledged that stock theft is a national concern.
“Stock theft is indeed a national issue, and we are doing our best as the police. We advise villagers to brand their livestock with personalised marks so that, in the event of recovery, we can easily identify the rightful owners,” Inspector Banda said.
He also encouraged villagers to create WhatsApp groups that include anti-stock theft members from the police.
“Having WhatsApp groups with one of our anti-stock theft officers would enable swift communication. If someone notices suspicious activity at night, instead of shouting, they can send a message, and villagers can react swiftly under police guidance,” he explained.
Inspector Banda confirmed that the request for more roadblocks is valid.
“The issue of roadblocks is indeed relevant, and we are taking it on board. I will engage the commanders in Nkayi. It’s also essential for community representatives to meet with the officer in charge to express these concerns and ensure roadblocks are set up,” he concluded.
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