The Manitoba government is providing funding to allow the RCMP General Investigative Section (GIS) to hire a designated officer who will investigate livestock-related crimes and enhance the protection of cattle and other livestock in Manitoba, while also supporting a Manitoba-based livestock inspection initiative, Justice Minister Matt Wiebe and Agriculture Minister Ron Kostyshyn announced Thursday.
“Rural Manitobans have told us that livestock theft and related crimes have a significant impact on producers, their families and their livelihoods,” said Wiebe. “By funding a dedicated livestock investigations position within the RCMP, our government is strengthening enforcement, improving coordination with producers and law enforcement partners, and helping ensure those who commit crimes against Manitoba’s agriculture sector are held accountable.”
Beef producers in Manitoba have been advocating for a dedicated RCMP officer to support a livestock inspection initiative. The initiative is modelled after similar programs in Saskatchewan and Alberta.
“Manitoba's beef producers are a key component of Manitoba’s agricultural-based economy,” said Kostyshyn. “They have identified the need for stronger investigative capacity, and our government listened. This investment will support a made-in-Manitoba livestock inspection initiative that will provide producers with greater confidence that their herds and operations are protected.”
“Cattle-related theft and fraud incidents are very detrimental and can adversely affect beef sector confidence at a time when there are efforts to grow Manitoba’s cattle herd,” said Arvid Nottveit, president, Manitoba Beef Producers. “Having a dedicated RCMP resource will not only support investigative activities but should also serve as a needed deterrent. The commitment to this valuable resource is something that MBP and the members of the Manitoba Livestock Inspection Working Group have been advocating for, and we thank the provincial government for its commitment to this very important piece of the livestock inspection initiative.”
RCMP investigators will work directly with producers and other law enforcement agencies to enforce provincial livestock-related laws and the Criminal Code. Enforcement of these laws will help deter cattle theft and fraud.
“Manitoba’s livestock industry is integral to the lives of producers and the success of rural communities throughout the province,” said Assistant Commissioner Scott McMurchy, commanding officer, Manitoba RCMP. “This new position will ensure livestock thefts and other industry-related crimes are thoroughly investigated, bringing greater protection to this important economic sector and the many Manitobans who rely upon it.”
Cases of theft and fraud related to Manitoba’s cattle industry are costly and disruptive for affected producers and others. RCMP statistics show 57 reported cases between 2021 and 2025. Industry representatives say such cases also undermine the confidence of lenders, investors and buyers when conducting livestock transactions in Manitoba, the ministers noted.
(Manitoba government news release)
