Cattle rustlers decimate herds
http://www.thezimbabwean.co.uk
A syndicate of cattle rustlers is reportedly wreaking havoc in the Somabhula
resettlement area and has been accused of working in cahoots with a local
butcher who slaughters the animals for re-sale.
05.09.12
11:03am
by Dumisani Ndlovu
According to farmers from the area, the men drive cattle for several
kilometres before slaughtering them. Although official figures are
unavailable, it is estimated that more than 20 cows have been stolen over
the last two months.
The latest victim, Happious Chiwenga, lost four cows in June. He said the
rustlers and butchers operated from Zvishavane, Shurugwi and Gweru.
“I woke up in the morning and discovered that my six cattle were missing. I
reported the case to police who took long to respond,” said another victim
who added that he suspected the police were also part of the syndicate.
A Zimbabwe Republic Police Neighborhood Watch Committee branch officer, Mion
Hlakuvana, said people knew who the men committing the crimes were, but
would not report them.
“The suspects are known but the problem is that the victims do not want to
confront them or directly name them,” said Hlakuvana. “The perpetrators must
face the full wrath of the law. It is disturbing to see such high profile
criminals walking scot-free.”