Farmers lament how thieves allegedly drug goats with tramadol before stealing them in Aboso

Goat farmers in Aboso in the Prestea Huni Valley Municipality of the Western Region have raised concerns over a series of livestock thefts, alleging that suspected thieves are using tramadol or sleeping tablets to incapacitate the animals before stealing them.

The suspected perpetrators are reportedly operating under the cover of darkness, leaving affected farmers with significant losses and increasing anxiety among residents.

According to reports, the suspects allegedly mix the substances with food or fish and feed them to the goats. The animals are said to become weak within minutes, making it easier for the thieves to steal and slaughter them without attracting attention.

Kojo Bonsu, a resident of Aboso and goat farmer, said he had lost almost his entire herd of 70 goats, with only two remaining.

He added that the zonal council chairman and several other residents had also suffered similar losses.

Mr Bonsu suspects that some of the stolen animals could be ending up with chinchinga (kebab) vendors amid rising demand for goat meat. However, no evidence has been provided to establish a connection between the vendors and the alleged thefts.

He also warned that the continued losses could push frustrated residents to seek spiritual intervention through their traditional deities, a development he believes could have serious consequences for the community.

According to Mr Bonsu, the affected farmers have yet to formally report the incidents to the police, partly because they have not had the opportunity to do so.

He cautioned that if the thefts continue, residents could be compelled to take a collective decision with potentially far-reaching consequences for the community.

The reported incidents have heightened concerns among residents, who are calling for urgent intervention to protect their livestock, investigate the alleged thefts and identify and arrest those responsible.

They are also seeking measures to restore security and prevent further losses in Aboso.