POLICE in Mashonaland West have launched an investigation after reports of a suspected cattle rustling syndicate wreaking havoc in in the province.
Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed on its X account that it is investigating a case of stocktheft in which unknown suspects stole 21 cattle at Plot 21, Batch Farm, Banket last week.
In the incident, nine cattle were found deboned and 12 others were recovered at a neighbouring farm.
“Meanwhile, 37 knives, heaps of steak meat and 50kg empty bags were recovered at the scene. Sauro Mudzimiri (32) has since been arrested in connection with the case,” the police said.
The latest cattle theft comes hardly few days after Mhondoro villagers expressed concern over failure by the police to arrest cattle rustlers that recently hit the area.
Mashonaland West proportional representative MP Mutsa Murombedzi said it was high time suspects were arrested and made to account for their actions.
“Stocktheft, particularly cattle rustling, has emerged as a significant threat to rural livelihoods in Zimbabwe. In Mashonaland West, we have many reports from areas including Banket and Mhondoro, which underscores the gravity of this issue.
“For instance, in Banket, a farmer lost a significant portion of his herd to well-coordinated cattle thieves. Similarly, another disturbing case in Mhondoro saw livestock in villages being targeted, further destabilising the local farming and security of our communities,” she said.
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Murombedzi said the police acknowledged the rising incidence of stocktheft.
“The scale of these operations suggests not only the involvement of organised criminal networks but also a severe lack of effective deterrents. Despite efforts by law enforcement, the recurrence of these crimes indicates that current measures are insufficient. Cattle rustling is often accompanied by violence, putting the lives of rural residents at risk,” she said.
