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Illustration of Farmers Cry Foul Over Stolen And Dead Cattle

Cattle Farmers Devastated by Thefts and Brutal Killings

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Two cattle farmers in Labasa are heartbroken after experiencing brutal livestock thefts that have resulted in significant financial losses nearing $10,000. Arif Hussein, a farmer from Valebasoga, reported the theft of three bulls over a two-month period, with the first incident occurring on November 29 and subsequent thefts taking place on December 20 and 27. Despite promptly reporting these incidents to the Labasa Police Station, Hussein faced devastation when he later discovered the remains of two bulls near his farm.

“Seeing the skin and intestines was heartbreaking; these bulls were not just livestock but part of my family’s livelihood,” Hussein lamented. The financial impact has been considerable, with losses exceeding $6,000, which has added to his worries about supporting his children’s education and their overall family income. He expressed his hope that the perpetrator is found soon, as he and his wife spend sleepless nights watching over their remaining cattle.

Another farmer, 75-year-old Mahaboob Ali from Soasoa, shared a similar experience when a bull worth around $3,000 went missing on December 9. After weeks of searching, he found only the bull’s skin discarded in the nearby mountains. Ali, who has over two decades of farming experience, emphasized the moral implications of such thefts, stating, “No religion encourages acts of theft and cruelty.”

The Acting Divisional Police Commander for the North, Superintendent Eroni Soqosoqo, confirmed that investigations into both farmers’ reports are ongoing. The trend of livestock theft has raised serious concerns within the farming community, especially among those who heavily rely on cattle for their livelihoods. Authorities are working actively to address these crimes, recognizing that community vigilance is crucial during vulnerable periods, particularly in challenging weather conditions that might allow for increased theft.

As the community comes together to support these affected farmers, there is hope that through increased awareness and collaboration with law enforcement, a safer environment can be fostered for agriculture in Labasa. This troubling situation serves as a poignant reminder of the value of compassion, solidarity, and collective action in safeguarding the livelihoods of local farmers, emphasizing the importance of unity during difficult times.


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