Horse Stolen For Second Time

The bay stallion recently recovered by Ruapehu District Council (RDC) compliance staff after being broken out from the Taumarunui pound has been stolen again.

RDC Compliance Officer, Elly Waitoa, said that this was the third time the pound has been broken into and a horse removed this year.

“After each break-in we have increased security measures at the pound however the thieves are prepared to do anything to get the animal back,” she said.

“The horse named Barney had just been sold to a new owner following being put up for tender after being recovered from its first theft.”

Ms Waitoa said that the theft was discovered when the new owner came to collect the horse.

“They had attempted to cut through a heavy steel cable strung along the pound fence perimeter.”

“When this failed they chopped through a fence post to give themselves access,” she said.

“If someone is determined as these people are to get an animal out and damage whatever they need to in the process there is little council can do to stop them.”

Ms Waitoa added that the Police had been informed and will be making enquires along with council staff who are on the look-out for the horse.

“This horse is quite distinctive as it has a series of lumpy growths around its left eye,” she said.

“When stolen it was also wearing a bright yellow halter.”

“Anyone who has any information about the horse can call either council or the Police.”
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