Sawi Hausiku
John Muyamba
The Namibian Police Force (NamPol) in the Kavango East region is investigating a case in which five armed men allegedly stole 87 cattle from Diyogha village in the Mukwe constituency on Saturday.
The suspected rustlers are believed to be Angolans.
NamPol Crime Investigations Coordinator for the region, Deputy Commissioner Bonifatius Kanyetu, told Nampa on Wednesday the 87 cattle are valued at N$783 000.
A cattle herder who was tending the livestock at Diyogha village was confronted by five men carrying guns and a traditional axe.
They allegedly rounded up the 87 cattle, and forced him to help them in driving the cattle into Angola.
Kanyetu said the cattle herder returned on Sunday evening unharmed, after he was allegedly freed by the rustlers and he went to alert the owners of the cattle.
Following the alert, three cattle owners, four community members and two cattle herders crossed into Angola on Sunday to pursue their stolen livestock and they have not yet returned.
Kanyetu said an investigation into the whereabouts of the nine individuals is ongoing, through a joint operation with Angolan police.
He added that none of the stolen cattle have been recovered and the suspects remain unknown and at large.
Reaction
Reacting to the alleged theft, Kavango East Regional Council chairperson and Mukwe constituency councillor, Damian Maghambayi, called for vigilance amid growing panic.
“Let us remain united and vigilant. Together, we can protect our livestock, ensure community safety, and uphold our shared values of trust and responsibility,’’ he said.
He also urged traditional leaders, community elders and local committees to strengthen community monitoring and screening processes when employing cattle herders.
“This incident is not isolated. It is part of a growing pattern of organised cross-border cattle theft that has severely affected our farmers, particularly those living in border communities. Of great concern is the possibility that some of those involved in these crimes are individuals we have entrusted with the responsibility of herding and protecting our livestock,’’ he noted.
He reminded community members that it is essential for those employing cattle herders from Angola to conduct thorough background checks.
“Let us work together to identify and prevent criminal elements from exploiting our trust and livelihoods. Lastly, I urge the community to continue cooperating with the police and the Namibian Defence Force, who have already taken steps in response to these incidents.
“Their role is critical, especially given the cross-border nature of the stock theft,” he added.
-Nampa