Two men have been apprehended by police officers in Bulawayo in connection with a case of stock theft. The suspects were caught when their truck, loaded with 19 cattle, was intercepted, and they failed to provide a valid explanation for their possession of the animals.
Inspector Abednico Ncube, the spokesperson for the Bulawayo provincial police, confirmed the arrest of the alleged cattle rustlers. The stolen herd, which originated from Insiza district, had 17 live cattle recovered, while the remaining two unfortunately died during transportation.
The suspects have been identified as Edmore Bhibi (46) and Farai Phambukani (28), both residents of Bulawayo’s Emganwini suburb.
According to Ncube, the suspects were intercepted in the Esigodini Lewellen area after being spotted in Insiza. An informant attempted to stop them but they evaded capture by speeding towards Bulawayo. The informant then contacted Bulawayo Central Police, leading to the arrest of the accused individuals. Upon searching the truck, it was discovered that they were transporting 19 cattle, consisting of 13 cows and six oxen, without any legal documentation.
Ncube expressed gratitude to the public for their involvement in combating crime, which resulted in the recovery of the 19 cattle. He specifically commended the informant for their vigilance and cooperation in assisting law enforcement. Although two of the cattle tragically died, Ncube highlighted the significance of public engagement in facilitating the arrest and recovery process.
The two suspects are in police custody and are currently assisting police with further investigations.
