The immediate update of the current laws related to animal theft would be the most fruitful solution to address the rapidly increasing incidence of cattle theft, said State Minister of Livestock Development D.B. Herath.
Speaking to The Daily Morning yesterday (28), he stated that it could be the only step that can be taken by the Ministry to address the issue since the major role is to be played by the relevant law enforcement authorities, such as the Police. He further stated that the owners must also be attentive to the safety of the animals and should take necessary precautions with the support and advice of those authorities. He also noted that several discussions were held regarding the issue, with the participation of officials of the Agriculture Ministry, the State Ministry of Livestock Development, and a group of Police officers led by a Deputy Inspector General.
“The officials of our ministries held several discussions with the Police regarding the particular issue. Everyone highlighted the importance of updating the current laws. Accordingly, we initiated measures to update certain fines related to animal theft, and we hope to carry on the exercise,” he added.
He also said that certain communities, particularly in districts such as Anuradhapura, Kurunegala, and Polonnaruwa, have been affected by this matter since cattle farming has been a major income source for their livelihood.
Recently, the media, quoting Police sources, reported that 575 cows have been reportedly stolen, with 336 occurring in the North-Central Province alone within a period of one year (2023–2024). The entire worth of the stolen livestock topped Rs. 105 million, according to the complainants.
Last year (2023), the Agriculture Ministry said that while the Ministry had received complaints with regard to cattle theft-related incidents in large numbers, the maximum fine that could be imposed for such a crime is Rs. 50,000, as per the existing legislation, and that they did not mention the possibility of imprisoning the culprits. They also announced that these provisions of the respective legislation would soon be amended.
Source: Daily morning
