From September 1 to December 31, the number of sheep reported stolen in these areas dropped by nearly 50 per cent while from July 1 to September 30, there were 50 reports of livestock theft statewide, including 21 in SAPOL's northern operations area and 29 in its southern operations area. The stolen stock were estimated to be worth $500,000.

"While this is pleasing, in these two areas, we need to continue to be vigilant and encourage farmers to report all stock thefts," SAPOL northern operations assistant commissioner Neil Smith said.

"Police are still concerned that farmers don't report all theft, or don't report it in a timely manner. There is a far greater chance of success in catching poachers if police are notified immediately of the theft."

Ass Comm Smith said Operation Poach was providing more accurate data on the number and type of thefts.

"This helps to build a picture of what is actually occurring in regard to stock theft," he said. "The operation has also identified that the pattern of theft has changed.

"In the past, it was thought that prime lambs were a target of thieves. It now it seems to be ewes, in particular young ewes, that are stolen.

"We suspect in some cases that rather than being slaughtered, the stock may be shorn and re-tagged and put back into flocks - essentially giving them a new identity."

He said SAPOL had more information on crime prevention initiatives for interested producers.

*Full report in Stock Journal, February 2 issue, 2012.