Two cattle farmers in Labasa are grappling with significant emotional and financial distress due to the recent theft and brutal killings of their livestock, leading to combined losses estimated at nearly $10,000. Arif Hussein, a 39-year-old farmer from Valebasoga, reported losing three bulls over a two-month period, with the first incident occurring on November 29, followed by further thefts on December 20 and 27. Despite promptly reporting these incidents to the Labasa Police Station, Hussein faced heartbreak when he later discovered the remains of two of his bulls near his farm weeks later.
“Seeing the skin and intestines was devastating; these bulls weren’t just stock; they were integral to my family’s livelihood,” Hussein expressed, noting that he has suffered losses exceeding $6,000. Concerned about the impact on his children’s education and the financial strain placed on his family, he added, “We can’t afford to allow someone to affect our business.”
Similarly, 75-year-old farmer Mahaboob Ali from Soasoa reported that his bull, valued at approximately $3,000, went missing on December 9. After several weeks of searching, he found only its skin discarded in nearby mountains. Ali, who has been farming for over two decades, highlighted the moral implications of such acts, asserting, “No religion encourages such acts of theft and cruelty.”
Acting Divisional Police Commander for the North, Superintendent Eroni Soqosoqo, confirmed that investigations are ongoing into both farmers’ reports. This distressing trend of livestock theft poses a growing concern for the local agricultural community, prompting law enforcement to increase community policing efforts to enhance vigilant oversight and support for farmers.
Authorities have underscored the importance of community cooperation in safeguarding livestock, especially during challenging times when the risk of such crimes increases. As the farmers of Labasa continue to cope with these challenges, this situation serves as a call for empathy and collective action within the community, reminding everyone of the value of compassion, unity, and support for one another during difficult times.
By fostering a stronger network of vigilance and collaboration with law enforcement, the hope remains strong for a safer environment for local farmers. The resilience shown by this agricultural community is essential in navigating adversity and can provide motivation to work together to combat these challenges and secure their livelihoods for the future.
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