MPUMALANGA – A significant breakthrough in a recent stock theft case in Lothair has led to the arrest of a 26-year-old man and the recovery of five head of cattle, though a second suspect remains on the run following a dramatic escape from custody.
According to a spokesperson for the Provincial Organised Crime Investigation Unit, the joint operation unfolded at approximately 05:45 on Monday, 13 July 2026. Acting on actionable intelligence, local police and provincial investigators intercepted a Toyota Hilux towing a trailer loaded with cattle along the Lothair–Ermelo Road. When questioned, the two individuals inside the vehicle were unable to produce any documentation or proof of ownership for the five animals.
The vehicle and its occupants were subsequently transported to the Lothair South African Police Service (SAPS) station for processing. However, during this phase, one of the suspects seized an opportunity to flee, disappearing into an adjacent plantation. Law enforcement immediately launched an extensive search operation, deploying aerial drone surveillance and specialized tracking dogs. Despite these advanced tactical efforts, the fugitive remains at large.
Authorities have successfully impounded the Toyota Hilux, the attached trailer, and the five head of cattle as critical evidence. The 26-year-old suspect currently in custody is slated for an imminent appearance at the Chief Albert Luthuli Magistrate’s Court to face formal charges of stock theft.
A police spokesperson confirmed that the docket has now been officially transferred to the specialized Stock Theft Unit, which will spearhead the ongoing investigation and the continued manhunt for the escaping suspect.