Johannesburg – A 34-year-old man has been arrested by the Stock Theft and Endangered Species (STES) Unit after being found in possession of 15 stolen sheep valued at R37,500.
The suspect, identified as Itemogeng Joseph Khavango, was apprehended after failing to account for the origin of the sheep. The arrest followed a tip-off received by members of the Vryburg STES unit about a man attempting to sell sheep at the Stella Abattoir in the North West province.
Police spokesperson Captain Aafje Botma confirmed that the sheep were positively identified by their rightful owner during a preliminary investigation. Khavango was subsequently charged with possession of suspected stolen stock and appeared before the Vryburg District Court.
He has been remanded in custody until his next court appearance scheduled for Monday, 23 January 2023, where he is expected to apply for bail.
Brigadier Tshenolo Tlotleng, Acting District Commissioner of Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District, praised the officers involved, commending their swift response and commitment to combating rural crime.
The case remains under investigation.
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