Four arrested for defying Foot and Mouth Disease ban
Pini Bothoko | Wednesday April 22, 2026 06:00
The quartet, aged 33, 34, 36, and 53, were arrested on the outskirts of Flower Town whilst in the process of slaughtering the animal.
Police say the act was carried out despite clear national restrictions prohibiting the slaughter of cloven-hoofed animals due to the FMD outbreak.
Confirming the incident, Mahalapye Central Police Station assistant commander, Assistant Superintendent Malakia Gabana, said officers discovered the suspects actively engaged in the illegal slaughter. He noted that wheelbarrows found at the scene suggested the men intended to transport the meat after the act.
“The suspects have been charged with illegal slaughter of cloven-hoofed animals in violation of the ongoing Foot and Mouth Disease restrictions. The carcass was confiscated and later disposed of by officers from the Department of Veterinary Services,” Gabana said.
He further urged members of the public to adhere strictly to the restrictions, emphasising that they are in place to curb the spread of the disease and protect the country’s livestock industry.
Gabana pleaded with the public to be patient and comply with the law, warning that anyone found breaching the regulations will face legal consequences.