Live stock thieves on the loose after 26 cows went missing

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Alleged live stock thieves are on the loose after 26 cows were stolen from St Helena Kraals in Welkom, Free State on Wednesday.

According to Free State police spokesperson Captain Stephen Thakeng, Warrant Officer Motsejoa Lehloma of Virginia Rural Safety, Detective Sergeant Mmota and a Communal farmer from Vaalkrans farm received information about possible stolen livestock near Vaalkrans farm on Friday at about 10:30.

“The trio responded instantly to the scene and 15 Brahman cattle were found inside the bushes and left scattered. The search continued until additional four mixed breeds cattle were found and seized.

“The complainant was informed and confirmed that the recovered cattle belong to her. She was so happy with excellent work done by SAPS members and her colleague who is a farmer.

“Seven mixed breed cattles are still missing and the investigation continues,” he said.

Cpt. Thakeng appealed to anyone who might have information leading to the arrests of suspects and whereabouts of the cattle to contact the police or Crime Stop number.

Meanwhile, a 31-year-old Moitheri Mpinga sentenced to life for rape and attack on an asthmatic patient.

“On 4 January 2023 at about 22:00, a married couple was walking home in Tambo Section when the 64-year-old husband started to experience Asthma attacks,” Sergeant Mahlomola Kareli remarked.

He stated that the wife tried to help him and they both sat down on the side of the road.

Sgt Kareli added; “While sitting, the 27-year-old male approached and asked them why are they sitting down. Unprovoked, the suspect started assaulting the 64-year-old and stabbed him before he urned on 54-year-old wife dragging her towards a nearby house where he forced himself on her. 

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“Few moments passed and the victim managed to escape and run to Tumahole police station.  Cases of Assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm for the husband and rape of the wife were opened for further investigation.

“The suspect was arrested after he was found asleep in the shack where he raped the 54-year-old victim. Results from the Forensic science lab revealed that the suspect’s DNA gave a hit on three rape cases. 

“Mpinga was sentenced to 15 years for rape of 54-year-old wife and 4 years for assault GBH on her husband. He was also slapped with a life sentence for the rape of 26-year-old victim.”