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.

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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.