Just in: Free State Stock Gang Taken Out Following

Dedicated crime prevention efforts and swift tactical coordination in Thaba Nchu in the Free State, have led to the recovery of a stolen vehicle and the members successfully intercepting a stock theft syndicate.

?On Monday evening, 30 March 2026, members of the Thaba Nchu Crime Prevention Unit were conducting routine patrols when they noticed an abandoned white Nissan 1400 bakkie on the N8 highway. Upon circulating the vehicle’s details, it was discovered that the bakkie had been reported stolen in the Parkweg policing area.  No arrests made yet and investigation continue.

?At approximately 20:10, SAPS members received a tip-off regarding suspected stolen livestock kept at a residential property in Ramakgari Location.

?In a coordinated response, the Thaba Nchu Detective Commander and Station Commander mobilized a high-capacity team consisting of the Tactical Response Team (TRT) and the Bloemfontein Flying Squad.

Upon arriving at the scene, the team discovered 17 live cattle in the yard. Further inspection of the premises revealed one slaughtered cow already stored inside a refrigerator.  The meat was seized and the live cattle were transported to the local police station for safekeeping and identification.

?Three suspects a male and a female (the homeowners) and an additional male suspect were arrested on the scene for possession of suspected stolen property and stock theft.

?Preliminary investigations have linked the livestock to a farm in the Tweespruit area, where the owner reported 35 cattle stolen overnight. Efforts are currently underway to locate the remaining livestock and determine if the suspects are linked to other stock theft cases in the district.

The suspects are expected to appear in the Thaba Nchu Magistrate’s Court soon.