FARMERS are fuming after eight goats were allegedly poisoned.
Andries Khumalo (55) said seven of his goats went missing on Thursday, 1 December.
He was devastated when they were found dead on a farm on the outskirts of Thulamahashe, Mpumalanga.
“We went with herder, Wilson Nyathi, to look for the goats around the farms, but didn’t find them,” Andries said.
“On Friday, we received a call that they were found dead near a bishop’s farm fence. They appeared to have been poisoned.”
Andries said a week earlier, one of his cows died mysteriously while grazing near the farm. His wife, Lisbeth, said there was an earlier incident where five goats died while grazing on the farm.
Mike Mabunda (77) said the eighth belonged to him.
“We reported this to the police as goats are naturally clever and don’t get bitten by snakes,” he said.
Farmer and Fountain of Living Waters Church Bishop, Edward Dube, denied claims that he poisoned the goats.
“My worker and I were away the week this happened. They can investigate my farm. I don’t even use chemicals,” he said.
“I grow sunflowers and they’re not toxic. Farmers know the place is infested with deadly snakes.
“The little we know is that their herder made calls on Friday, saying he was in big trouble. He said eight goats died near my farm close to a tree with snake holes.”
Edward said a few days earlier, a cow was found dead nearby and it was believed a mamba bit it.
He said he suspected the goats died from a snake bite.
Mpumalanga Agriculture spokeswoman Zanele Shabangu said:” Our team is investigating the matter.”
Brigadier Selvy Mohlala said a case of cruelty to animal was opened after goats were found dead.
“The investigation continues.”
