The Manitoba government is cracking down on cattle crimes. Justice Minister Matt Wiebe and Agriculture Minister Ron Kostyshyn announced Thursday the government is providing money to Manitoba RCMP to help hire a designated officer to investigate livestock-related crimes, such as fraud or theft. “What we’re bringing forward is the gold standard when it comes to this issue of cattle theft and cattle rustling and support for the beef industry, and agriculture more broadly,” Wiebe said. According to a news release from the province, 57 reported cases of cattle theft or fraud were reported to Manitoba RCMP between 2021 and 2025. “These are sophisticated criminals who are often organizing themselves and doing it as part of a larger ring of theft,” Wiebe said. Similar programs are already in place in Saskatchewan and Alberta. The Manitoba Beef Producers have been advocating for the program for several years, and past president Matthew Atkinson called Thursday’s announcement a great step forward for the industry. “This addresses a lot of agricultural and rural crime, but it also represents an opportunity for investment in our sector,” he said. “When we create this level of security within our industry, it gives comfort to investors both within the province, along with those sending livestock to our province.” Wiebe said the province is working with RCMP to determine the final cost of the position.
