BOTETI CHIEFS SOUND ALARM OVER SURGE IN LIVESTOCK THEFT

Article By: Phenyo Babusi

Traditional leaders in the Boteti District have raised alarm over a sharp rise in livestock theft, particularly around Letlhakane.

Speaking to Gabz FM News, some Dikgosi said the situation has worsened during the ongoing foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreak, attributing the surge to a growing black market, accusing unscrupulous buyers and butchers of purchasing stolen cattle and meat.

They say criminals move small numbers of cattle between villages to avoid detection, making tracking difficult.

Dikgosi further called for tighter regulation of livestock trade and stronger enforcement to dismantle illegal markets and curb the growing crisis.