Two cattle farmers in Labasa are grappling with significant emotional and financial distress following the theft and brutal killing of their livestock, leading to combined losses estimated at nearly $10,000. Arif Hussein, a farmer from Valebasoga, disclosed that he lost three bulls between November 29 and December 27 last year. Despite promptly reporting these incidents to the Labasa Police Station, Hussein’s heartbreak deepened when he discovered the remains of two of his bulls near his property weeks later.
Hussein expressed his anguish, stating, “Seeing the skin and intestines was heartbreaking; these bulls were not just livestock but part of my family’s livelihood.” He estimates his losses to exceed $6,000, a situation that has caused sleepless nights for him and his family as they worry about their remaining cattle and the educational needs of their children.
Another farmer, Mahaboob Ali from Soasoa, reported that a bull valued at around $3,000 went missing on December 9. After an extensive search, he found only its skin discarded in the nearby mountains, further emphasizing the cruelty involved. Ali, who has been farming for more than 20 years, lamented the moral decay of society, asserting, “No religion encourages human beings to steal and kill; hence, we should respect each other.”
The ongoing investigations are confirmed by Acting Divisional Police Commander for North, Superintendent Eroni Soqosoqo, who emphasized that the reports from both farmers are being thoroughly investigated. This troubling trend of livestock theft has raised alarm among local farmers, many of whom rely heavily on their cattle for income.
Recognizing the increasing incidents of theft, especially during vulnerable periods such as adverse weather conditions, the Fiji Police Force is ramping up community policing efforts to address these crimes. Assistant Commissioner Livai Driu highlighted that such criminal activities often surge when farmers may be distracted by challenges, thus underscoring the need for heightened vigilance in the community.
This situation not only reflects the difficulties faced by individual farmers but also indicates a broader issue impacting agriculture in the region. Community support and cooperation are paramount for safeguarding local resources and ensuring that the hard work of farmers is respected and protected.
As the farmers in Labasa navigate these challenging times, the hope remains that increased awareness and community solidarity can foster a safer environment for agriculture. The resilience shown by these farmers and their families illustrates the importance of togetherness and compassion in overcoming adversity. With collective action, it is possible to mitigate such incidents and restore peace and security for the farming community.
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