03 Jul 2025

Residents of Goo Kgano Ward in Kanye have called on the government to implement stricter measures to combat rampant stock theft.

Their concerns were articulated during a kgotla meeting addressed by Member of Parliament for Kanye West, Mr Victor Phologolo, on Monday, where they expressed their frustration regarding the incidences which they claimed were done by repeat offenders.

They said these criminals were often released on bail, only to reoffend shortly thereafter.

A resident, Mr Morotsi Entaile, proposed a review of the bail system, arguing offenders manipulated it to secure quick releases.

He suggested that dikgosi, should be granted the authority to prosecute stock theft cases, noting their deeper understanding of traditional cattle markings compared to legal professionals.

In response, Mr Phologolo underscored the importance of community involvement to tackle stock theft.

He said many elders failed to report suspicious behaviors and often protected the identities of the culprits instead of collaborating with law enforcement officials.

The MP highlighted the formation of the Badisa Kgomo Society, established to combat stock theft, and mentioned that the group was seeking governmental support to strengthen their efforts.

Mr Phologolo said cattle rustlers often killed pregnant and vaccinated cows, something that was negatively impacted consumers’ health.

 Furthermore, Mr Phologolo assured the residents that the government would scrutinise the bail laws for potential weaknesses, with an aim to legislate measures that would prevent police from prosecuting stock theft cases directly.

Instead, he proposed that law enforcement would focus on investigations while legal professionals would facilitate prosecutions.

In addition to addressing stock theft, the legislator also informed residents of plans for Constituency Community Projects (CCP) aimed at improving primary school conditions in the district, some of which have had serious infrastructure issues, including collapsed ceilings and wildlife invasions.

He announced the upcoming construction of 22 emergency housing units for flood victims in Lorolwane village and expressed gratitude to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for their donations of food and tents to support these individuals. ENDS