In Labasa, two cattle farmers are experiencing devastating losses due to a series of livestock thefts that have left them with nearly $10,000 in damages. Arif Hussein, a farmer from Valebasoga, reported the theft of three bulls over the last two months of the previous year, with incidents occurring on November 29, December 20, and December 27. Despite promptly alerting the Labasa Police, Hussein faced heartbreak when he later discovered the remains of two of his bulls nearby.

“Seeing the brutalized remains crushed my spirit; these bulls were not merely livestock but a vital part of our family’s livelihood,” shared Hussein, who noted that these losses have put significant financial pressure on his family as they rely on their cattle for income, especially with the added concern of funding their children’s education.

Another farmer, Mahaboob Ali, also faced similar misfortune when his bull, valued at around $3,000, went missing from Vulovi on December 9. After weeks of searching, Ali’s son found the bull’s skin abandoned in the mountains. “No religion condones such acts of theft and cruelty; we must learn to respect one another,” Ali emphasized, reflecting the moral implications of livestock theft in their community.

Acting Divisional Police Commander for North, Superintendent Eroni Soqosoqo, confirmed that investigations into both cases are ongoing. This troubling trend has raised alarms among local farmers, prompting the Fiji Police to step up community policing efforts. As Assistant Commissioner of Police Operations, Livai Driu, stated, theft incidents often rise during adverse weather conditions, when thieves may see opportunities in diminished vigilance.

Authorities urge the local community to remain alert and report any suspicious activities to protect not only their own livelihood but that of their neighbors. The hope is that collaborative community efforts and increased police presence will create a safer environment for farmers and their animals, fostering solidarity against such inhumane acts.

As these farmers navigate their current challenges, there is a shared sentiment that kindness and mutual support among community members will be vital to overcoming these adversities together, reinforcing the importance of compassion in safeguarding their agricultural livelihoods.