MELAKA: Livestock thefts involving high-end breeds are on the rise, prompting police here to launch a manhunt for the perpetrators.

       State CID chief Asst Comm Mohd Sukri Kaman said a cattle-rustling syndicate was believed to be responsible for the thefts from farms across the state.

       "We will go after these suspects, who have caused farmers to suffer heavy losses since the beginning of this year.

       "Seven members were arrested on June 16. Investigations are ongoing to cripple this network," he said on Friday (June 25).

       ACP Mohd Sukri said the suspects, aged between 21 and 53, included a civil servant and were currently under remand to assist in investigations.

       He said between Jan 1 and June 24, 38 cows and 10 dairy goats were reported stolen.

       ACP Mohd Sukri said Alor Gajah had seven reports, Jasin six and Melaka Tengah, three.

       "Some of the stolen livestock were costly breeds and estimated losses since early this year come up to RM274,000," he said.

       Based on statistics, ACP Mohd Sukri said June recorded the highest number of thefts with 16 cows and goats going missing, followed by January (11), April (10), May (five) and February and March (three each).

       "We have launched a manhunt to track down the remaining syndicate members.

       "Breeders should be more alert," he said, adding that they should hire a security guard or improve the fencing around their farms.