Two cattle farmers in Labasa are suffering significant losses after their livestock were stolen and cruelly killed, resulting in nearly $10,000 in damages. Arif Hussein, a farmer from Valebasoga, reported the loss of three bulls over two months, with the first incident on November 29, followed by thefts on December 20 and 27. Despite his efforts to report these crimes to the Labasa Police Station, Hussein faced heartbreak when he discovered the remains of two of his bulls near his farm weeks later.

Expressing his anguish, Hussein stated, “Seeing the brutalized remains left me in tears; these bulls were not just livestock but part of my family’s livelihood.” The financial burden has weighed heavily on his family, as they depend on their cattle for income, further complicating their children’s educational needs.

Another farmer, Mahaboob Ali, experienced a similar tragedy when a bull worth around $3,000 went missing from Vulovi on December 9. After an extensive search, he found its skin abandoned in the nearby mountains. Ali, who has been dedicated to farming for over two decades, lamented the cruelty of these acts and spoke about the necessity for community respect, stating, “No religion encourages such acts of theft and cruelty.”

The situation has prompted the Acting Divisional Police Commander for North, Superintendent Eroni Soqosoqo, to confirm that investigations are ongoing. This trend of livestock theft has become a growing concern among local farmers, many of whom depend heavily on their livestock to sustain their livelihoods.

In response to the rising incidences of such crimes, particularly during challenging weather conditions, the Fiji Police Force is increasing community policing efforts. Assistant Commissioner Livai Driu highlighted that crime often spikes during adverse weather, suggesting that thieves may take advantage of reduced vigilance. The police are encouraging community members to remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding their properties.

As these farmers navigate their adversity, the broader community is reminded of the importance of compassion and support for one another in these troubling times. The hope is that increased vigilance, collaboration with law enforcement, and communal empathy can foster a safer environment for all farmers and their livestock, underlining the value of community solidarity.