EPUKIRO – Community Against Stocktheft Organisation (CASO) chairperson, Hionganda Nanda Murangi, has called on farmers to remain vigilant during the rainy season, warning that cattle thieves are targeting areas such as ponds and dams.

Murangi, in an interview with Nampa, noted that many farmers believe their livestock are safe and enjoying the abundance of water and grazing. However, he cautioned that amidst ongoing good rains in the areas of Eiseb and Epukiro, water catchment areas are now hotspots for stock theft.

To combat this, CASO deployed teams during the festive season to monitor high-risk areas.

“Let us not relax, visits to ponds and earth dams must be done on a regular basis. Let’s be on the lookout and keep on patrolling,” the chairperson said.

He further called on farmers and community members to do their part and alert CASO of any suspicious people or vehicles in their areas.

“Livestock is our only means of survival. It amongst others pays for our children’s education and needs to be taken care of. We don’t have to allow thieves to take it away from us,” he added.

The chairperson further emphasised that CASO will continue working with the Namibian Police in curbing crime in the community.

“We are grateful that NamPol is collaborating with us in protecting the community. We will make sure that stock theft is not tolerated,” Murangi said.

The chairperson added that about 20 CASO members were trained by NamPol in July last year, equipping them with essential policing skills.

In early December 2024, CASO and community efforts led to the recovery of four stolen cattle near the villages of Otjimati and Ozombouvapa. The suspects abandoned their vehicle after a chase. 

While eight suspects fled the scene, two were later apprehended by NamPol at Ozombouvapa and a neighbouring cattle post.

Police investigations into the matter continue.

-Nampa