FREE STATE – The Heilbron Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit is actively investigating a significant stock theft case at Steynsrus Rietvlei Farm, following the disappearance of 45 sheep valued at approximately R151,000. A case docket was officially opened at the Steynsrus Police Station after the livestock shortfall was discovered.
According to a spokesperson for the Heilbron Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit, the 54-year-old complainant, a farmer residing at Somerset Oos Farm, identified the missing animals during a routine count on Saturday, 29 August 2026, at Rietvlei Farm.
Official records indicate that the initial livestock count conducted on Friday, 28 August 2026, totaled 186 sheep, comprising 85 SA Meat Merino ewes and 101 SA Meat Merino lambs. However, during the subsequent verification on Saturday, only 69 SA Meat Merino ewes and 72 SA Meat Merino lambs remained on the property.
This discrepancy accounts for a total of 45 missing sheep, specifically 16 SA Meat Merino ewes and 29 SA Meat Merino lambs. The combined directed value of the missing livestock is estimated at R151,000.
Furthermore, the investigation has uncovered a disturbing detail: some of the missing sheep were later discovered sparsely placed along the Steynsrus-Arlington gravel road with their throats slit.
The Heilbron Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit continues to pursue all investigative leads regarding the incident. Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the theft or the deceased animals to come forward and assist with the ongoing inquiry.
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