THREE STOCK THEFT THIEVES SENTENCED TO 12 MONTHS IMPRISONMENT OR R8,000 FINE IN LIMPOPO

THREE STOCK THEFT THIEVES SENTENCED TO 12 MONTHS IMPRISONMENT OR R8,000 FINE IN LIMPOPO

POLOKWANE – Three accused convicted of stock theft have been sentenced by the Motetema District Court,Sekhukhune District on Wednesday 19th March 2025. The court sentenced the offenders to 12 months direct imprisonment or a fine of R8,000.00 after they pleaded guilty to charges related to the unlawful possession of six sheep valued at R18,000.00. The cases were investigated by the Marble Hall Endangered Species and Stock Theft Unit.

On Tuesday, 27 August 2024, at approximately 01:20, members of Motetema SAPS stopped a suspicious bakkie. During the vehicle search, police discovered six sheep in the rear compartment. The three occupants – Aron Ratau (36 years), Shaku Kabelo (30 years), and Nonyana Bethuel (29 years) were unable to provide a satisfactory account for the livestock, which was later confirmed as stolen by the lawful owner.

Led by Detective Constable Lesiba Ratshilumela, the investigation resulted in two charges: failure to give a satisfactory account for possession of suspected stolen stock (six sheep) and stock theft. Following their arrest, they pleaded quilty and after being found guilty and convicted , their bail was withdrawn, and the accused were sentenced by the Magistrate’s Court to 12 months direct imprisonment or to R8000. 00 fine .

The Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe stated, “This sentencing underscores our zero tolerance for stock theft. Livestock is a vital asset for our communities, and we will relentlessly pursue those who compromise our livelihoods.”