Dyfed-Powys Police launch appeal after receiving high level livestock theft reports

The amount of reports has led to Dyfed-Powys Police launching an official appeal to farmers and associated industries which include four reports of stolen cattle and 30 reports of sheep since August 1.

The incidents have occurred in the counties of Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Powys.

The number of animals stolen range from single figures up to 141 in one incident. Fifteen cattle were also reported stolen in one case near Llandeilo.

The sheep thefts have occurred on open common grazing land and enclosed fields. Police officers from each area are investigating these crimes.

However with a time period of up to three months when some of these thefts occurred along with the isolated locations, lines of enquiry can be very limited.

The recent rise in sheep thefts is being attributed to the autumn gather when flocks are counted for the first time in a few months. As well as increasing proactive patrols focusing on vehicles that could be used to transport livestock, Dyfed-Powys Police is looking to work with the farming unions, sheep associations and related industry organisations to look at long term solutions to this issue.

Dyfed-Powys Police superintendent Robyn Mason said: “Livestock thefts, in particular theft of sheep, provide for challenging investigations.

“Forensic opportunities in livestock investigation can be very limited. We therefore rely on people to come forward with information that could lead us to the suspects. The people involved must have knowledge and experience of handling livestock, the means to transport them and the markets to sell on the animals as carcasses or potential breeding stock.

“People within the industry will know or have their suspicions as to who is responsible for these crimes. I would urge anyone with information to contact their local police using the 101 number or alternatively you can pass on information completely anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”