LIVESTOCK SECURITY out, making it difficult and time-consuming for police officers to respond promptly to incidents.
LIVESTOCK SECURITY out, making it difficult and time-consuming for police officers to respond promptly to incidents.
“ Statistics rarely tell the full story,” he adds.“ Only around 50 % of livestock theft cases are reported.”
Part of the problem, according to Scholtz, is that not all farmers comply with livestock identification laws, such as tattooing and branding. Maintaining proper animal registers and marking animals correctly can help increase recovery rates and aid law enforcement.
Another frustration is the court process itself. Scholtz notes that cases are often delayed repeatedly, which deters farmers from pursuing justice.
“ Farmers have to appear in court multiple times only for cases to be postponed again. It takes time and costs money. That’ s why some choose to settle informally instead of pressing charges.”
Many cases are also thrown out simply because the farmer is not in court.
“ The criminals know this and take advantage,” he warns.