By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
6 July 2026 – Three men were arrested for stock theft in a coordinated efforts. On 27 June 2026, a stock theft case was registered at Potchefstroom Police Station after a livestock owner reported the theft of 25 head of cattle.
The North West police spokesperson, Captain Majang Skalkie said a multi-disciplinary operation comprising members of the Potchefstroom Public Order Police (POP), Potchefstroom Flying Squad, Potchefstroom Crime Intelligence, Potchefstroom Stock Theft Unit, together with local farmers, was immediately activated. Skalkie said the operation yielded positive results when three men, identified as Santo Ponya (47), Moeti Peter Mosia (43), and Samuel Nhlapo (34), were arrested along the N12 road near Potchefstroom.
“The suspects were found in possession of 16 head of cattle, which were positively identified by the lawful owner as part of the stolen livestock. The trio appeared before the Potchefstroom Magistrate’s Court on 29 June 2026, on charges of stock theft and possession of suspected stolen livestock.
“They were remanded in custody until 6 July 2026 for a bail application,” she said.
Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, commended the police and all stakeholders involved for their swift response. Naidoo said the excellent collaboration between the police and the farming community, led to the successful arrest of the suspects.
“I would like to emphasise that rural safety remains a priority as it contributes directly to the country’s economy and the South African Police Service (SAPS) remains committed to combating stock theft and ensuring the safety and security of rural communities,” he said.
The Guardian 