By Fanuel Chinowaita
NHARIRA, Bocha Marange, 23 April 2026 – Farmers have been urged to thoroughly vet all workers and strengthen livestock security measures as the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) intensifies a province-wide crackdown on stock theft.
National Anti-Stock Theft Unit Coordinator, Commissioner Tambudzai Joyline Mazambani, issued the warning while addressing farmers and stakeholders at Nharira Secondary School in Marange yesterday.
The outreach programme was held under Chief Marange, who was also in attendance, alongside officials from the Civil Registry Department and Mutare West legislator Nyasha Marange.
Commissioner Mazambani said stock theft remains a priority crime, with insider involvement continuing to drive cases across farming communities.
“Let’s verify those who work for you. Work with the police,” she said, stressing the need for stronger collaboration between farmers and law enforcement.
She outlined a multi-pronged strategy being implemented in Manicaland, including the activation of Anti-Stock Theft Liaison Committees to enhance information sharing between police and key players in the livestock and meat industries.
Farmers were instructed to resume strict livestock management practices such as daily herding, penning and counting of animals. They were also urged to report theft cases promptly and provide intelligence to police.
Mazambani said all livestock movements must now be accompanied by a ZRP Livestock Clearance Certificate (Form 392), while branding and ear-tagging have been made mandatory to improve traceability.
“Strict adherence to the requirements and regulations governing the livestock and meat industries, including abattoirs and butchery operators, is no longer optional,” she said.
Reinforcing the directive, provincial veterinary representative Dr Chabhanga told farmers that stock cards—costing US$2 per animal—must be obtained and supported by updated stock registers.
“When you want to sell, police want to see the stock card and stock register. Movement must be regulated. There must be assurance that there are no diseases,” he said.
From the National Prosecuting Authority, Mr Musarurwa warned that offenders face stiff penalties under the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act [Chapter 9:23].
“Stock theft carries an effective nine-year prison term and above,” he said.
He added that farmers seeking registered branding marks must first obtain certification from the Civil Registry at a cost of US$5 before proceeding to the veterinary department.
Closing the engagement, Commissioner Mazambani called for unity in combating the crime.
“Together we conquer, divided we fall,” she said, thanking farmers and stakeholders for supporting police efforts.
Police indicated that both awareness campaigns and enforcement patrols will be intensified across Manicaland Province as authorities move to curb stock theft.
