In a concerted effort to curb the ongoing theft of macadamia nuts in Chiradzulu, police executed a meticulously planned raid operation that culminated in the arrest of 14 individuals. The operation, conducted during the late hours of January 27 and 28, 2024, centred around Yasin Trading Centre, a hotspot for nut-related crime in the region.
Cosmas Kagulo, the Public Relations Officer for Chiradzulu Police, affirmed the successful operation and disclosed that the raid was prompted by a surge in reports regarding nut thefts within the vicinity of Yasin and Thomas Trading Centres. “The station has been inundated with complaints detailing the rampant theft of macadamia nuts, prompting us to take decisive action,” Kagulo stated.
During the raid, law enforcement officers managed to apprehend suspects ranging in age from 20 to 60 years old. Eleven of the suspects hailed from the jurisdiction of Traditional Authority Likoswe, with the remaining three originating from Traditional Authority Mpama within Chiradzulu District.
The stolen macadamia nuts, weighing a total of 1,287 kilograms and valued at K14.5 million, were recovered from Sable Farming, a significant win for authorities in their battle against agricultural theft.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the arrested individuals are poised to face charges in court, where they will be required to answer for their alleged involvement in the theft of macadamia nuts. The swift and decisive action taken by Chiradzulu Police underscores their commitment to safeguarding agricultural assets and preserving the livelihoods of local farmers.
