Crime Prevention Committees Celebrate 25 Years of Cross-Border Stock Theft Prevention
District Members of Crime Prevention Committees (CPCs) from various regions, along with their counterparts from the Eastern Cape (EC) in South Africa (SA), gathered at Thokoana in the Matatiele area on Thursday to celebrate 25 years of joint efforts in combating cross-border stock theft.
The event marked a significant milestone in the long-standing cooperation between communities in Lesotho and South Africa, who have worked tirelessly to curb livestock theft along their shared border. The collaboration between CPCs has not only reduced crime but has also strengthened relations between the two nations.
Speaking at the gathering, Mount Moorosi Constituency No. 67 Member of Parliament, Mr. Thuso Mosetlelo, commended the dedication of farmers who, as CPC members, have remained committed to fighting stock theft for decades. He noted that their efforts have significantly improved security in affected areas and reinforced trust between the neighboring countries.
Mr. Mosetlelo further emphasized the need to extend these successful initiatives to other regions currently struggling with stock theft. He suggested inviting CPCs from Quthing and Qacha’s Nek to Mokhotlong, where cross-border livestock theft remains a pressing issue. By learning from the effective strategies used in Matatiele, these areas could replicate successful approaches to eliminate stock theft in their communities.
The event highlighted the power of community-led crime prevention and showcased how collaboration between nations can lead to sustainable solutions for longstanding security challenges. With continued commitment, CPCs remain a vital force in ensuring the safety of livestock owners and fostering regional cooperation.
