Livestock theft in South Africa: Do the structures fail the producer?

Willie Clack, senior lecturer in criminal justice at Unisa, and a farmer in North West, analyses statistics from the South African Police Service over the past 30 years to determine the trend in stock theft.

When delving into the livestock theft statistics provided by the South African Police Service (SAPS) on 16 February 2024, a superficial glance might suggest a modest decrease of 2.1% (156 less) in the overall number of cases, as is found in Graph 1 below.

However, it’s crucial not to fall into the trap of complacency.

Merely scratching the surface of these figures offers only a partial understanding of the complex reality on the ground, leaving significant gaps in our comprehension of the issue.

While a decrease of 2,1% in livestock theft cases may seem encouraging, it’s essential to contextualise this within the broader scope of livestock management and agricultural practices. Livestock theft remains a persistent and pervasive problem, inflicting substantial economic and emotional damage on farmers and rural communities across South Africa. The toll extends beyond mere numbers; it encompasses livelihoods, food security, and the social fabric of rural societies.