FREE STATE – The Heilbron Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit has launched a formal investigation into a significant livestock theft at Steynsrus Rietvlei Farm, where 45 sheep valued at an estimated R151,000 have gone missing.
A spokesperson for the Heilbron Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit confirmed that a case docket was officially registered at the Steynsrus Police Station. The complaint was lodged by a 54-year-old farmer residing at Somerset Oos Farm, who identified the livestock discrepancy during a routine audit on Saturday, 29 August 2026, at Rietvlei Farm.
According to official records, a headcount conducted the previous day, Friday, 28 August 2026, verified a total of 186 sheep on the property. This initial inventory consisted of 85 SA Meat Merino ewes and 101 SA Meat Merino lambs. By Saturday, however, the on-site numbers had dropped significantly, with only 69 SA Meat Merino ewes and 72 SA Meat Merino lambs remaining on the premises.
This discrepancy leaves exactly 45 unaccounted-for animals, specifically 16 SA Meat Merino ewes and 29 SA Meat Merino lambs. The combined directed value of the missing livestock is currently assessed at R151,000.
Adding a grim dimension to the ongoing inquiry, authorities allege that several of the missing animals were later located scattered along the Steynsrus-Arlington gravel road, having been killed with their throats slit.
The Heilbron Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit is actively pursuing all available investigative leads. Officials are urging members of the public with any information regarding the theft or the deceased animals to come forward and assist law enforcement in resolving the case.
