A Chipinge man is in police custody after he allegedly stole nine goats and pocketed funds that had been entrusted to him for purchasing livestock, authorities said on Sunday.
The suspect, whose name has not been released, was reportedly given money to buy goats but instead decided to steal the animals and keep the cash. The fraud was uncovered when the livestock owner reported the matter to the police.
Officers responded and arrested the man. He is expected to appear in court soon facing charges of fraud and theft.
Police in Chipinge have urged residents to remain vigilant when conducting livestock transactions and to use trusted intermediaries.
This incident adds to a growing list of fraud cases involving livestock in the province.
