Otjijarua: The Community Against Stocktheft Organisation (CASO) has condemned incidents of animal cruelty at Otjijarua village in the Epukiro Constituency of the Omaheke Region. This condemnation comes after a heifer returned home with a spear lodged through its body on Saturday.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the organisation's spokesperson, Sandi Tjaronda, expressed outrage over the incident during an interview on Wednesday, labeling it as a barbaric act. "How on earth can anyone leave an animal to endure such a slow, painful death?" he questioned.

Tjaronda suggested that this act might be part of a new trend used by thieves to steal livestock. He described the perpetrators as heartless individuals with clear intentions, hinting at the existence of illicit markets with high demand for meat. He emphasized the need for vigilance and protection of animals.

Similar incidents were reported last year in the villages of Kalkpan, Okovimburu, Otjimati, and Ozombouvapa. "We heard of cruel attacks on small stock in these places. This must come to an end," Tjaronda warned. He called for farmers to be vigilant and collaborate with community-based anti-stock theft organizations to curb such activities.

Tjaronda further stated that CASO is committed to intensifying its campaigns to combat stock theft. He reminded the public of the economic importance of cattle and the need to protect them from organized syndicates. He urged farmers to frequently visit hotspots, including water collection areas and grazing pastures, particularly during the rainy season when the risk of theft increases.

The owner of the injured heifer, Alex Kenikejanda Kandetu, shared his distress with Namibia Press Agency, noting that this was the second time his livestock had been targeted. "This is the second animal to be stabbed in our kraal, and our cattle are also missing. Thievery is real nowadays, and the offenders have a network or syndicate that needs to be defeated," he remarked.