Two cattle farmers in Labasa are devastated by the recent theft and brutal killing of their livestock, resulting in significant financial losses close to $10,000. Arif Hussein from Valebasoga reported losing three bulls during the last two months of the previous year. The first theft took place on November 29, followed by additional incidents on December 20 and December 27. Despite promptly reporting each incident to the Labasa Police Station, Hussein’s situation worsened when he later discovered the remains of two bulls near his farm weeks later.
Hussein expressed his sorrow, 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 be over $6,000, which has caused substantial stress on his family, particularly concerning the education of his children and the overall financial stability of their household.
Another farmer, 75-year-old Mahaboob Ali from Soasoa, reported the disappearance of a bull valued at $3,000 on December 9. After weeks of searching, his son found the bull’s skin abandoned in the mountains. Ali, who has been a farmer for over two decades, lamented the moral implications of these thefts, asserting, “No religion encourages such acts of theft and cruelty; we must show respect for one another.”
The Acting Divisional Police Commander for the North, Superintendent Eroni Soqosoqo, confirmed that investigations into these incidents are ongoing, highlighting a concerning trend of livestock theft in the region which poses a serious threat to local farmers who rely heavily on their cattle for their income. In response, the Fiji Police Force is ramping up community policing efforts, urging residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities, particularly during vulnerable times when theft rates tend to increase.
This tragic situation not only underscores the dire plight of the affected farmers but also serves as a rallying call for community solidarity. The community’s empathy and support are crucial in safeguarding their livelihoods, reminding everyone of the importance of compassion and collective action during challenging times. As local farmers navigate these uphill battles, there exists a hopeful sentiment that increased collaboration with law enforcement and heightened awareness can lead to a safer environment for agriculture in Labasa, reinforcing the strength found within unity and resilience in adversity.
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