Stock theft on the increase

Northam – Farmers in Northam and surrounds are reporting an increase in stock theft. In the latest incident [Wednesday 24 February], 44 goats and sheep were stolen. “We want to urge farmers to be extra vigilant. Ensure that your livestock is marked according to regulations. Check your fences regularly for any damages and look out for unknown footprints,” Heritage Protection Group representative Johan Young said.

SAFETY TIPS TO PROTECT LIVESTOCK

• Livestock owners should make sure that all of their fences and gates are in a proper condition to protect their livestock. 
• If you have loading ramps that you can’t supervise, make sure it’s locked. 
• Prevent stolen animals from being hidden on your property. Stock posts serve as ideal overnight stopovers to hide stolen livestock. 
• Count your livestock regularly.
• Mark your animals properly with a registered brandmark. This will help in the event of a court case where ownership is disputed.
• Be particularly watchful during full moon, weekends and at the end or beginning of a month.
• Unknown animals among your animals, should be reported immediately.
• Reporting livestock theft immediately as it can increase the possibility of success in an investigation.
• Train your employees to pay attention to irregularities. 
• Keep proper record of all prospective livestock buyers as soon as you enter negotiations.
• Cooperate with the local police and support them in their efforts in the fight against stock theft.
• Install a [hidden] solar powered webcam on your farm road – if possible.