Police hunt suspect after 45 sheep found slaughtered on Free State road

Police in the Free State are investigating after 45 sheep were reported missing from a farm and some were later found with their throats slit along a gravel road.

Farmer discovered discrepancy during livestock count

According to the South African Police Service (Saps), a 54-year-old farmer at Somerset Oos Farm noticed a shortfall during livestock counting on Saturday, 29 August at Rietvlei Farm. The farmer told police that an earlier count the previous day showed 186 animals85 South African Meat Merino ewes and 101 lambs.

When the count was repeated on 29 August, there were only 69 ewes and 72 lambs remaining on the farm, leaving 45 sheep unaccounted for. Saps said the missing animals comprised 16 ewes and 29 lambs of the South African Meat Merino breed.

Some animals found slit-throated on gravel road

Saps regional spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Covane said some of the sheep were found sparsely placed along the Steynsrus–Arlington gravel road with their throats slit. The combined directed value of the missing animals is estimated at R151,000.

Investigation and appeal for information

The case docket of stock theft was opened at the Steynsrus Police Station and is being investigated by the Heilbron Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit. Authorities have appealed to the public for help.

“Any member of the public who might have information that can assist the police with the investigation is requested to contact Warrant Officer Henry Greeff at 082-627-7577,”

Information can also be submitted anonymously via the MySAPS app or by calling the Saps Crime Stop number on 08600-10111.

Next steps

Police said the matter is under investigation. No further details about arrests or suspects were provided in the statement included in the police release.