Stock theft in KwaZulu-Natal has become quite popular in the province in recent years. The latest case of 51 stolen goats occurred in the Bergville area.
Police in Bulwer arrested two suspects during a routine vehicle checkpoint operation on 28 August. However, this crime took on a dramatic twist, a further two men were arrested for allegedly attempting to bribe a police officer R5000 to release the confiscated goats.
Here’s how this dramatic crime played out.
According to police spokesperson, Thenjiswa Ngcobo, the two suspects’ vehicle was stopped at a vehicle checkpoint operation in Bulwer.
“The two occupants could not provide proper documentation relating to the transportation of livestock,” said Ncgobo.
Ncgobo said investigations revealed the men were from Sandlwana in Bergville. They were en route to sell the goats in Bulwer, Donnybrook, and Elandskop.
The men were questioned, detained, and charged with the possession of goods suspected to be stolen.
Stolen goat saga, corruption at play
The case became more fascinating when elements of corruption came into play.
Two people approached the Bulwer Police Station on the morning of 29 August and attempted to bribe the Station Commander.
The duo offered to pay the Station Commander R5000 for the release of the 51 goats and the vehicle the animals were transported.
“The Station Commander refused the offer and, in turn, arrested both suspects, aged 38 and 47 years old, for bribery and corruption,” added Ngcobo.
It is unclear at this point how the two men, allegedly offering the police official a bribe, are linked to the two suspects who were initially arrested for the crime.
The four suspects are expected to appear before the Bulwer Magistrate’s Court on 1 September.
What are your views of suspects attempting to bribe the police official?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 11.
Subscribe to The South African website’s newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
