Over 50 cattle destroyed for moving without permits

OVER 50 cattle have been destroyed by the Department of Veterinary Services so far this year for illegal movement of livestock without permits and police clearance.

Department of Veterinary Services acting deputy director Dr Reverend Spargo told The Sunday Mail Online that there has been a rise in the illegal livestock movement.

“We have noted with great concern the rise in illegal livestock movements. This year alone, since January, we have destroyed over 50 cattle for moving without necessary documents, which are the livestock movement permits,” he said.

Farmers, he said, need veterinary permits and police clearance to ensure the legal movement of animals.

“They don’t have to lose their animals unnecessarily because these illegally moved animals are destroyed without compensation,” he said.

“We would like to advise members of the public that it is a requirement by law for all farmers to obtain a veterinary movement permit from the Department of Veterinary Services before moving animals.

“We want to make sure that movement of livestock does not spread diseases and pests across the country and also to prevent stock theft by ensuring all people only move livestock that they own.”