NATIONAL: A 39-year-old suspect from Paballong Village, QwaQwa in the Free State was arrested on Tuesday, 28 July 2026, during an intelligence-driven operation conducted by the Fouriesburg Stock Theft Unit.

The suspect was found in possession of 15 sheep valued at approximately R22 000 at a residence in Bohlokong, said the South African Police Service (SAPS).

On Tuesday, 28 July 2026, members of the Bethlehem Crime Intelligence Unit, working together with the Fouriesburg Stock Theft Unit, acted on information regarding a suspicious vehicle allegedly transporting livestock.

The vehicle was traced to a residential property in Bohlokong. During the search, police recovered 15 sheep bearing tampered identification tattoos. The suspect failed to produce the required proof of ownership for the livestock and was immediately arrested.

SAPS urged community members not to purchase stolen livestock or carcasses for personal use or financial gain, as it is a criminal offence.