Livestock owners warned of stock theft scam

THE SAPS Stock Theft Unit in KwaZulu-Natal is warning livestock owners to be aware of the modus operandi used by stock thieves. Criminals are targeting livestock owners who had fallen prey to the stock thieves by informing them that they had found and recovered their stolen livestock. They pretend to be police officers from Stock Theft Unit from other provinces investigating their cases. They would inform the victim that their livestock has been recovered at another province but they have to deposit a certain amount of cash so that their livestock can be transported back home.

Criminals are demanding amounts from R2 000 upwards. Police are cautioning livestock owners not to fall prey to this scam. They urged people to beware and that police will never request cash from a victim. Stock Theft Investigators will in fact assist victims and would transport them to view the recovered livestock.

All the victims of stock theft are advised to make contact with their investigating officers as soon as they have opened a stock theft case. If they have been contacted by these criminals, they are advised to immediately contact the nearest police station or their investigating officer.

— Supplied.