Two Suspects Sought in Donkey Theft Case Worth R48,000 Near Seshego

Seshego, Limpopo – Limpopo police have launched a manhunt for two unknown suspects involved in the theft of livestock valued at nearly R50,000. The incident, which took place near Seshego, has left a local farmer devastated and the community alarmed over the growing trend of livestock theft in the region.

According to information released by Limpopo SAPS, two donkeys were stolen from a farm outside Seshego during the early hours of the morning earlier this week. The animals, valued at an estimated R48,000, were believed to have been taken by thieves who had carefully planned the crime and escaped without leaving behind immediate clues.

The theft was only discovered later in the morning when the owner of the donkeys noticed they were missing from their kraal. A search of the surrounding area yielded no signs of the missing animals, prompting the farmer to report the incident to local police.

Police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba confirmed the case and said a team of investigators from the Seshego SAPS stock theft unit has been assigned to track down the culprits.

“At this point, we are appealing to members of the public to come forward with any information that may help us trace the stolen animals and identify the suspects involved. Livestock theft continues to have a serious economic and emotional impact on rural communities, and we are treating this case with the urgency it deserves,” said Ledwaba.

The donkeys in question are reported to be a rare breed commonly used for both agricultural work and transportation in rural Limpopo. The owner, who asked not to be named for safety reasons, expressed frustration and sadness over the loss.

“These donkeys were not only part of my income – they were part of my life. I raised them for years and used them to help with ploughing and transporting goods. I don’t understand how people can be so cruel and take what others have worked so hard for,” the farmer told reporters.

The animals were reportedly last seen by a neighbor late the previous night. Tracks found on a nearby dirt road suggest that the donkeys were led away from the property and possibly loaded into a vehicle. Authorities believe the theft was carried out by individuals familiar with the area and livestock handling.

Stock theft remains a serious concern in Limpopo, where many residents rely heavily on farming and animal husbandry for their livelihoods. In recent years, police have seen an increase in organized livestock crime, with stolen animals often sold illegally at informal markets or transported across provincial borders for quick resale.

“This is not just a small crime,” said Sergeant Mmanoko Matladi, the investigating officer on the case. “For many rural families, livestock is their only source of income. When someone loses animals to theft, they often lose their ability to put food on the table.”

Sergeant Matladi has urged community members not to remain silent if they see or hear anything suspicious. “We’re asking anyone with information – no matter how small – to come forward. You can contact me directly on 082 565 8135, or use Crime Stop at 08600 10111. You can also report anonymously via the MySAPSApp or go to the nearest police station,” she added.

In response to the growing challenge of stock theft, the South African Police Service has called on farming communities to work together and take preventative steps such as marking animals, installing basic surveillance, and ensuring kraals are securely locked at night. Local community policing forums have also been urged to remain alert and strengthen neighborhood patrols.

Rural safety expert Themba Sehole says stock theft syndicates often exploit the lack of infrastructure in remote areas. “Criminals know when and where to strike – they take advantage of darkness, isolation, and gaps in policing. These aren’t just opportunists; some of them are highly organized and connected,” he said.

Meanwhile, community members near Seshego have expressed outrage and concern about the crime. “These criminals are taking from the poorest. We need stronger action, better policing, and justice for those who are suffering,” said local resident and small-scale farmer Anna Mothapo.

The police have assured the public that the investigation remains a top priority and that any breakthrough will be communicated promptly. Authorities are also collaborating with surrounding police stations and using local informant networks to track the movement of suspected stolen livestock.

As the search continues, the farmer whose donkeys were taken is holding out hope. “I just want my animals back. I want justice to be served. People need to understand that stealing from us means destroying our future,” he said.