By OBAKENG MAJE
27 October 2025- A stock-theft case against two men, Moagi Motlhabane (27) and Sipho Tobi (27), has been postponed until 25 November 2025. Motlhabane and Tobi were arrested on 20 and 21 October 2025, by the members of Lehurutshe Stock Theft and Endangered Species (STES) Unit at Brakkuil and Koffiekraal villages, in Madikwe on 17 October 2025.
The North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said the pair was arrested following the theft of 11 cattle worth R254 000, on 16 October 2025. Mokgwabone said after becoming aware of the incident, the farmer searched around the farm and found one of the cattle and a calf, but bearing new brand marks.
“Ensuing police investigations identified the registered owner of the brand mark. Information was later received and followed up regarding a speculator who was about to auction cattle, including the one with a new brand mark. The questioning of the speculator at the Zeerust Auction culminated in the impounding of the cattle and the recovery of the farmer’s five cattle.
“Motlhabane granted a R3000 bail upon appearance before the Zeerust Magistrate’s Court, while Tobi, who is from Lesotho, abandoned the bail application. He is also facing a further charge of contravention of the Immigration Act, 2002. Investigations into the matter continue,” he said.
Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo welcomed the arrest.
The Guardian 