Two cattle farmers in Labasa are facing immense distress following recent thefts and brutal killings of their livestock, resulting in considerable financial losses close to $10,000. Arif Hussein, a farmer from Valebasoga, reported that he lost three bulls within a two-month period, with thefts occurring on November 29, December 20, and December 27. Despite promptly reporting these incidents to the Labasa Police Station, Hussein was devastated to later find the remains of two bulls near his farm weeks later.
Describing his heartbreak, Hussein stated, “Seeing the skin and intestines was heartbreaking; these bulls were not just livestock but part of my family’s livelihood.” He estimates his financial loss at over $6,000, intensifying concerns about his family’s financial stability, especially with children returning to school.
Similarly, Mahaboob Ali, a 75-year-old farmer from Soasoa, reported a bull valued at around $3,000 missing after it disappeared on December 9. After an extensive search, his son found only the skin in the mountains, further highlighting the cruel nature of these acts. Ali, who has been farming for more than two decades, emphasized the moral implications of theft, stating, “No religion encourages such acts of theft and cruelty; we must show respect for one another.”
Confirming the ongoing investigation into these thefts, Acting Divisional Police Commander for the North, Superintendent Eroni Soqosoqo, acknowledged a growing concern regarding livestock thefts in the region. This alarming trend has prompted the Fiji Police Force to enhance community policing efforts, urging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities, particularly during vulnerable times such as adverse weather conditions when theft rates typically rise.
This unfortunate series of events not only underscores the distressing challenges faced by farmers but also calls for community solidarity. There is hope that through collective action and heightened awareness, a safer environment for farmers and their livestock can be achieved. The resilience and support shown by community members during these challenging times reinforce the importance of compassion and unity in overcoming adversity. By rallying together, farmers and residents can strive toward restoring security and ensuring the well-being of their agricultural livelihoods in Labasa.
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