ZRP Intensifies Nationwide Crackdown On Stock Theft, Illegal Meat Trade

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) says it has intensified a nationwide crackdown targeting stock theft and the illegal sale of meat.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, 28 April, police spokesperson Paul Nyathi said the operation is aimed at enforcing strict compliance with laws governing the ownership, movement, slaughter and disposal of livestock, including cattle, goats and sheep.

He added that the exercise will also focus on eliminating the illegal trade in meat, which poses both economic and public health risks if left unchecked.

“The Police has noted with concern reports of stock theft cases, particularly involving cattle and goats in which criminal syndicates are stealing livestock from farms and rural areas before slaughtering the animals and transporting the carcasses to towns, cities and growth points where there is a ready market,” Commissioner Nyathi said.

“Investigations have revealed that the stolen meat is often packed in buckets and other containers before being transported in the boots of vehicles or other compartments to various market points.

“The meat is then sold along streets, in open spaces, in front of supermarkets, at backyard kitchens, informal markets, residential areas, business centres and directly from vehicle boots.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police further notes that some butcheries, food outlets and even established supermarkets are contributing to this illegal trade by purchasing meat from unverified and illegal suppliers.”

Commissioner Nyathi stressed that the movement of livestock from one location to another must be supported by valid veterinary permits, as well as properly issued stock clearance certificates obtained from the police.

He added that all livestock, including cattle, donkeys, goats and sheep, must be physically inspected by both veterinary officials and the police before clearance is granted, to verify ownership and prevent the transportation of stolen animals.

“Butchery operators are required by the law to maintain proper registers reflecting the source of meat, including supplier details and proof of lawful acquisition,” Commissioner Nyathi said.

“Failure to comply, or knowingly acquiring meat from criminal syndicates, will result in arrest and prosecution.

“Abattoirs must ensure that all livestock presented for slaughter is accompanied by a valid police clearance and a veterinary certificate.

“The Police will conduct stop-and-search patrols and mount roadblock blitz targeting vehicles, buses and other transporters suspected of carrying illegal meat or stolen livestock.

“Inspections targeted at both registered and illegal abattoirs, butcheries, meat vendors, sausage producers and food outlets will be heightened to verify the origin and legality of meat products.”

Commissioner  Nyathi said the sale of meat in undesignated places, including from buckets, open spaces, and vehicle boots, is illegal and poses serious public health risks.

He urged members of the public to exercise caution and avoid purchasing meat from unverified sources, warning that such practices could expose consumers to unsafe and unregulated products.

Commissioner Nyathi further warned that individuals and entities found in violation of stock theft laws and public health regulations — including transporters, buyers, butcheries, abattoirs, vendors and suppliers — will face arrest without fear or favour.