Goat farmers at Aboso in the Prestea-Huni Valley Municipality of the Western Region have bemoaned the incessant stealing of their livestock by some unscrupulous persons in the area.
The alleged modus operandi of the suspected thieves is to use tramadol or sleeping tablets to incapacitate the animals before taking them away.
According to some of the goat farmers, they are currently living in fear following the reported rise in goat thefts.
The farmers claim that beyond the financial losses, they fear the situation could provoke anger and frustration among residents if the perpetrators are not identified and brought to book.
“We call for urgent intervention to protect our livestock and also investigations into the alleged stealing of the animals to bring those responsible to justice,” they noted.
They also expressed concern that some affected residents might turn to traditional spiritual practices in search of intervention.
One of the farmers, Kojo Bonsu, warned that the farmers could face serious consequences if the situation continues to escalate.
He, however, noted that the affected farmers are yet to formally report the incidents to the police, explaining that they had not had the opportunity to do so.
He said their concern is not only the loss of their animals, but also the fear of waking up to find that what they live on have all disappeared.
Mr. Bonsu disclosed that he has lost almost his entire herd of 70 goats, with only two animals remaining after the incessant thefts.
He described the situation as a threat to livestock farming in the community, adding that the suspected thieves strike under the cover of darkness.
“The suspected perpetrators allegedly mix tramadol or sleeping tablets with food or fish and feed them to the goats.
“The substances are said to weaken the animals within minutes, making them easier to steal without attracting attention,” he alleged.
Another victim, Iddrisu Adams, claimed that the Zonal Council Chairman and several other residents had also suffered similar losses.
He mentioned that the repeated incidents have heightened concerns among livestock owners, many of whom depend on their animals for their livelihoods and financial security.
He alleged that some of the stolen goats may be finding their way to khebab or ‘chinchinga’ sellers.
He, however, mentioned that no evidence has been provided to establish the connection between the sellers and the alleged thefts.
From Emmanuel Opoku, Takoradi