The issue of stock and vehicle theft, particularly smuggling from South Africa to neighbouring countries, remains a major concern for local farmers and communities along the Limpopo River. This was a key topic during a recent engagement session aimed at tackling crime in the Niani area.
The session, spearheaded by the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS), in partnership with Musina Municipality, took place at Malale Community Hall last Thursday. It was attended by representatives from the Niani Community Against Crime Forum, the Border Management Authority, the SANDF, the Department of Home Affairs, the SAPS, and the National Prosecuting Authority.
Thanyani Netshikweta from the GCIS highlighted the importance of the session. "Lately, there has been a sharp rise in cross-border crimes in the Niani area," he said. He added that various affected stakeholders had been invited to discuss and develop strategies to combat these criminal activities.
Sunday Mpofu, representing stock farmers at the session, urged all stakeholders to work together to fight the scourge of stock theft. He emphasised that many people rely on livestock farming as their primary source of income, and it is devastating when thieves wipe out their stock, leaving them with little or nothing to sustain themselves. He also commended law-enforcement agencies for making progress in arresting suspects and recovering stolen livestock.
Musina Mayor Nkhanedzeni Mawela welcomed the initiative and assured attendees that Musina Municipality would fully support law-enforcement agencies, community structures, and individuals dedicated to crime prevention. He also expressed satisfaction with the progress made in exposing and prosecuting those involved in cross-border crime.
"We recently saw community members working hand in hand with law enforcement agencies to recover vehicles and livestock that were about to be smuggled across the Limpopo River. We urge everyone to take a stand against crime and assist by naming and shaming those responsible, so they can face the full might of the law," he said.