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Stock theft occurring along the borders of Lesotho and the Republic of South Africa continues to be a worrisome challenge confronting both countries.
Speaking in an interview with the Agency on Tuesday, the Coordinator of the Cross Border Crime Prevention Forum, Mr. Litaba Mohapi, said stock theft between the two countries has been a long-standing struggle, with numerous efforts over the years yielding minimal results.
Mr. Mohapi indicated that the increasing number of reported cases involving livestock stolen and illegally transported across the borders calls for more advanced and enhanced strategies to curb the crime.
He noted that the nature of cross-border stock theft has evolved, making it difficult to address using conventional methods, hence the need for improved intelligence sharing, technology-driven tracking systems, and strengthened collaboration between law-enforcement agencies.
However, Mr. Mohapi expressed optimism that with more coordinated and sustained efforts by the governments of Lesotho and South Africa, the stock theft menace can be effectively addressed.
He further highlighted the importance of community involvement, stating that border communities play a critical role in reporting suspicious activities and assisting authorities in combating the crime.
Mr. Mohapi added that ongoing engagements between relevant stakeholders from both countries aim to strengthen cooperation and develop practical solutions that will protect farmers’ livelihoods and promote security along the border areas.
He therefore called on all the relevant stakeholders including traditional leaders to embark on initiatives that will help cab stock theft along the borders.