Call for Police Satellites to Combat Stock Theft Along Lesotho-South Africa Border
There is a growing need to establish police satellite stations in villages near the Lesotho-South Africa border to curb the escalating issue of stock theft affecting both countries. This was highlighted by Mokhotlong Police District Commanding Officer, Senior Superintendent Leabua Shale, during an interview on Monday.
Senior Superintendent Shale emphasized the urgency of addressing stock theft, citing the high number of cases reported in Mokhotlong. He revealed that just last night, the Lets’eng police successfully recovered 320 stolen sheep and 40 donkeys after a herder reported the theft at a cattle post. The quick action of the police, in collaboration with the livestock owners, led to the recovery of all the stolen animals.
To tackle the issue more effectively, Shale advocated for the establishment of police satellites in border villages, which would enable quicker response times and greater coverage. He also stressed the importance of intensifying community training on policing, empowering residents to take an active role in crime prevention.
He appealed to the community to remain vigilant and continue reporting crimes, particularly stock theft, while working hand-in-hand with the police to deter criminal activities.
The proposed police satellites and community policing efforts aim to enhance border security and strengthen collaboration between Lesotho and South Africa in combating cross-border crimes. For now, authorities are calling for unity among stakeholders to address the problem and safeguard the livelihoods of farmers and herders in the region.
