Farmers turn to CCTV amid rising livestock theft risks

As livestock theft surges during the festive season, farmers in Labasa are turning to surveillance technology to protect their animals and livelihoods.

Mohammed Talim, a large-scale sheep and goat farmer from Bocalevu in Labasa, said that in July this year, thieves stole a significant number of his animals.

Mr Talim said the incident severely affected him, with his income taking a substantial hit.

"Some of the sheep I owned and had reserved for a wedding were stolen," he said.

Mr Talim said farmers like him work hard to rear their livestock, and incidents like these are deeply discouraging, raising questions about whether it’s worth continuing in the business.

Following the theft, Mr Talim made the decision to install closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras to improve surveillance and reduce future incidents.

"I had to make a choice and invest money into installing CCTV," he said.

"I believe every livestock farmer should consider installing CCTV cameras to help gather evidence when prosecuting thieves in court."

Another farmer, Ahmad Firoz, shared similar sentiments.

Mr Firoz, a small-scale sheep farmer, said he plans to install additional surveillance devices.

"Theft happens when you least expect it," he said.

Mr Talim noted that the loss of a single sheep can cost between $300 and $500—a significant amount given the rising cost of living.

He said livestock theft, particularly of bulls, pigs, sheep, and goats, tends to increase during the festive season due to the high market prices these animals fetch. He also raised concerns about wild dogs attacking his livestock.

"I’ve experienced wild dogs attacking my sheep, and it frightens me to think of more losses," he said.

Despite the challenges, Mr Talim remains committed to expanding his farm. He plans to fence more areas to increase stock and has called on the Ministry of Agriculture to assist him with fencing kits to make this goal a reality.