A 54-year-old stock theft suspect has forfeited his vehicle valued at R260 000 after being caught red-handed loading stolen cattle in Lothair.
According to the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, Mazithulele Gamede was arrested on 22 February 2024 at around 21:00 after police responded to reports of stock theft in progress. Upon arrival, officers found two stolen cattle loaded onto a trailer attached to a Toyota light delivery vehicle.
Image :The trailer used to transport stolen cattle, seized by authorities during the arrest of a stock theft suspect in Lothair.
It is alleged that Gamede assaulted the complainant when confronted at the scene. He was arrested immediately, and the matter was referred to the Ermelo Stock Theft Unit for further investigation. The vehicle used in the commission of the crime was seized.
Following an investigation by the Hawks’ Asset Investigation unit, a forfeiture order was successfully obtained. Both the vehicle and trailer were officially forfeited to the state.
The Provincial Head of the Hawks commended all role players involved, warning that instruments used to commit crimes will be seized. “Crime must not pay,” the General said.