Free State Agriculture (FSA) has expressed concern about the increase in seed theft from farms in the Free State since September 2025. The organisation is calling for a more proactive approach in dealing with crime in farming communities.
According to Dr Jane Buys, safety risk analyst, areas that have already been targeted include Reitz, Ventersburg, Viljoenskroon and Wesselsbron. Maize and sunflower seeds worth millions of rands have been stolen from farms and transported by vehicle to certain marketing areas.
Jakkals le Roux, chairperson of FSA’s rural safety committee, said the theft of seed would have an enormous impact on farmers’ farming practices, especially in terms of their yields as well as on food security.
“Farmers are advised to equip their packing and storage areas for seeds, fertilisers, pesticides, diesel, and other products with security technology such as lights, cameras and alarms to detect movement, especially after hours, in advance,” he said.
Le Roux further advised farmers not to leave any large-scale agricultural products or implements on their fields during nighttime hours, which would provide an opportunity for opportunistic criminals to target them.
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“The run-up to the festive season has already begun, and the fact that farmers are busy cultivating their lands raises the possibility that this type of crime could increase. Farmers are therefore requested to be very alert to protect their property and report any suspicious movement to the SAPS,” he said.
According to FSA, they will also request the SAPS to actively investigate the incidents that indicate that it is taking place in an organised manner, because there is a market or outlet area for it and because organised groups and syndicates are involved.
Buys also said they would launch further requests to rural safety coordinators for awareness campaigns.
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