Police believe that these animals were to be sold to buyers for the preparation of sacrificial rituals in conjunction with Hari Raya Haji which will be celebrated by Muslims in the country next month.

Melaka criminal investigation department chief Mohd Sukri Kaman said 38 cows and 10 goats belonging to farmers in the state were reported stolen in the Alor Gajah district involving seven cases, followed by Jasin (six cases) and Melaka Tengah (three cases).

He said of the total, 11 animals were reported stolen in January, February (three), March (three), April (10), May (five) and June (16).

“Following the reports received, seven men aged between 21 and 53 years old believed to be the masterminds behind the theft cases, were arrested from June 16 and are still remanded to assist investigations under Section 379 of the Penal Code.

“We also seized two cows believed to have been stolen and the remaining masterminds or criminals are still being tracked down,” he said in a statement here today.

He said in this regard, the police reminded buyers and sellers to be careful in conducting transactions, especially involving livestock for sacrificial rituals so as not to involve stolen animals.

Sukri said stern action would be taken against those involved in the crime and the public who had information related to the activity were asked to channel it to the police.