Two men have been sentenced to 10 years’ direct imprisonment for stealing nine cattle in Northam, Limpopo. Ariel Matsape, 43, and Joseph Tshinto, 30, were convicted in the Thabazimbi Regional Court on Tuesday, 10 February. The court also declared them unfit to possess a firearm.

The court heard that on the night of 9 June 2024, three men stole nine cattle from Koedoeskop Farm in the Northam policing area. The cattle were being driven towards Pylkop in North West. A community member noticed the herd passing his house and alerted others. Residents tried to apprehend the suspects, but they fled.

Police were called to the scene and were later joined by the Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit (STES). Warrant Officer Amanda Rossouw led the investigation, which ultimately traced and apprehended the suspects on the same day. Police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said community involvement played a key role in the arrests.

“The swift response by community members and the coordinated efforts between first responders and the Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit ensured that the suspects were apprehended on the same day,” said Ledwaba.

The suspects made several appearances in the Thabazimbi Magistrate’s Court and were granted bail. During trial proceedings, Tshinto absconded before judgment could be delivered. A warrant of arrest was issued and he was later rearrested. He remained in custody until the case was finalised.

Charges against a third suspect were withdrawn before the start of the trial. Provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe welcomed the sentence and praised investigators, the community, and the National Prosecuting Authority for their roles in securing the conviction.