Manitoba to fund livestock theft investigator

Oct 9, 2026 | 9:22 AM

The Manitoba government is providing funding, so the RCMP General Investigative Section (GIS) can hire a designated officer who will investigate livestock-related crimes.

Beef producers in Manitoba have been advocating for a dedicated RCMP officer to support a livestock inspection initiative.

It is modeled after similar programs in Saskatchewan and Alberta. Agriculture Minister Ron Kostyshyn said beef producers identified the need for stronger investigative capacity.

“The investment will support a made-in-Manitoba livestock inspection initiative that will provide producers with greater confidence that their herds and operations are protected,” Kostyshyn said.

RCMP statistics show that there were 57 reported livestock-related cases between 2021 and 2025.

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Manitoba Beef Producers President (MBP) Arvid Nottveit said cattle-related theft and fraud incidents can adversely affect beef sector confidence at a time when there are efforts to grow Manitoba’s cattle herd.

“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,” Nottveit said.

RCMP investigators will work directly with producers and other law enforcement agencies to enforce provincial livestock-related laws and the Criminal Code.

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alice.mcfarlane@pattisonmedia.com

by Pattison Media

Manitoba to fund livestock theft investigator

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