POTCHEFSTROOM –  A 45-year-old mother and her son, aged 18, are expected to appear in the Bafokeng Magistrates’ Court in Tlhabane on Monday, 8 November 2021, for possession of suspected stolen livestock.

The duo were arrested at Lefaragatlhe village near Tlhabane following an incident in which a shepherd was killed and livestock robbed at a cattle post in Serutube village outside Rustenburg on Thursday, 4 November 2021,

According to information available at this stage, reports suggest that three herdsmen were herding cattle at about 17:00 when three unknown males emerged from the bushes. The trio caught one of the herdsmen and tied his hands with a rope, then robbed him of his money and a cellphone. The suspects went to another herdsman (25), tied his hands and also robbed him of his cellphone and cash.

Furthermore, the suspects allegedly demanded the cattle and in the process, shot and killed the 25-year-old herdsman while his colleagues were assaulted with the butt of a firearm. The suspects then drove out a herd of cattle from the cattle post.

A manhunt launched by Phokeng Detectives and Stock Theft Unit immediately after the incident, led to the recovery of 21 cattle in Lefaragatlhe village. Consequently, 11 cattle were positively identified and linked with the incident. Further investigations revealed that two other cows with calves were stolen a week ago at the same place. In addition, police seized other cattle that were found at the place for further investigation.

The Provincial Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena extolled members for their collaboration and quick response that resulted in the arrest.

Source: South African Police Service