BY MBONO MDLULI
MLIBA — In a significant breakthrough in the fight against cattle theft, Mliba police have arrested and charged four men suspected of stealing livestock valued at E60 000.
The arrests, according to reports from the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS), were made on 23 November 2025 at approximately 11:30 am on a farm in the Zandondo area.
The four men, aged 41, 37, 34 and 24, hail from Nkiliji, kaBhekinkhosi, Mafutseni, and Ludlawini respectively. Authorities reported that the suspects were caught red-handed with three slaughtered cattle carcasses, sparking swift action from law enforcement.
Initial investigations made by the REPS indicate that the 24-year-old Mafutseni man and the 34-year-old Ludlawini man, both employed at a farm in Zandondo, conspired with two others to steal the cattle. According to police reports, the group illegally slaughtered the animals on the farm before loading the carcasses into a box truck. They reportedly transported the meat to a nearby river to wash the offals when they were spotted by a local resident, who immediately raised the alarm.
The UEDF (Uniformed Enforcement Division Force) stationed in the area responded promptly, apprehending the suspects and handing them over to the REPS. Police confirmed that none of the men had a valid stock removal permit, rendering their claim of legal purchase invalid. They have been formally charged and are expected to appear before the Mliba Circuit Court.
Authorities have indicated that further charges may be forthcoming as investigations continue. This follows a recent spate of livestock thefts in the region, including an incident last week at Ekutsimuleni, where three cattle valued at E34 000 were stolen and slaughtered while grazing.
The police have commended the vigilance of local residents whose timely reporting played a key role in the apprehension of the suspects. Officials have also emphasised the importance of community cooperation in combating livestock theft, which continues to pose significant economic and social challenges in rural areas.
Stock theft remains a pressing concern for farmers across the country, affecting livelihoods, food security, and local economies. The Mliba police, alongside community members, have vowed to continue pursuing offenders and implementing preventive measures to curb such criminal activities.
The case highlights the risks posed when employees collude with external buyers to commit theft, underscoring the need for farm owners to maintain strict oversight and reporting mechanisms. Authorities are urging anyone with information about recent or ongoing cattle thefts to come forward to assist with investigations.
The four suspects remain in custody pending their court appearance, with police reiterating that they will face stringent prosecution if found guilty. The successful operation is seen as a positive step in demonstrating law enforcement’s commitment to safeguarding farmers’ property and maintaining public order.
(Courtesy)
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