EIGHT YEARS’ DIRECT IMPRISONMENT FOR STOCK THEFT

23 September 2025

EIGHT YEARS’ DIRECT IMPRISONMENT FOR STOCK THEFT

Belfast, Mpumalanga – The Belfast Regional Court has convicted and sentenced Tebogo Zackaria Khumalo (32) and Nhlanhla Skosana (34) to eight years’ direct imprisonment each for their involvement in a stock theft syndicate valued at over R200 000. Between 2 and 3 September 2025, the complainant locked 63 sheep in the sheepfold at his farm in Elandsfontein, near Belfast. The following morning, he discovered the sheepfold empty and the fence cut. The matter was reported to the police stock theft unit, which launched an investigation.

The stolen livestock was later found in a secluded building, with their brand marks deliberately removed. The accused were caught on site in possession of knives. Both were arrested and charged under the Stock Theft Act 57 of 1959. In court, State Prosecutor Makhosonke Mashinini presented compelling evidence, including the complainant’s testimony confirming ownership of the sheep through brand marks, and the evidence of police officers who traced and recovered the livestock. The court also heard that the sheep were tied up when they were found, and that the accused were promised R1,500 each for their role in the offence.

During sentencing, the defence pleaded for leniency, arguing that the livestock had been recovered. However, Prosecutor Mashinini highlighted that stock theft is rife in the jurisdiction, that the accused showed no remorse, and urged the court to impose a deterrent sentence. The court sentenced both accused to eight years’ direct imprisonment and further declared them unfit to possess a firearm in terms of Section 103 of the Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000.

Stock theft has a significant economic, social, and psychological impact on farmers, disrupting farming operations and threatening food security. The NPA remains committed to prosecuting such cases without fear, favour, or prejudice. Ends

Issued by:

Monica Nyuswa

NPA Regional Spokesperson

DPP Mpumalanga

Tel: 013 045 0625 / 076 485 5446

Email: mnyuswa@npa.gov.za