Police have been told between Saturday 15 May 2021 and Tuesday 18 May 2021, 54 head of cattle were unlawfully mustered and removed from a property on Old South Road, Mittagong.

The owner - who had the cattle on agistment at the property for five months - went to inspect the cattle on Tuesday (18 May 2021) and discovered them missing.

Rural Crime Investigators attached to the Hume Police District attended the property and commenced an investigation.

A 61-year-old man was arrested at the property that afternoon and taken to Southern Highlands Police Station, where he was charged with steal cattle.

He pleaded guilty via AVL in Moss Vale Local Court yesterday (Wednesday 19 May 2021), and will appear before the same court on Tuesday 22 June 2021.

Investigators from the Rural Crime Prevention Team (RCPT) examined all 54 head of cattle, identifying them through National Livestock Identification System (NLIS) ear tags and ear marks.

All were then returned to the owner.

Detective Sergeant Damian Nott from the Rural Crime Prevention Team says reporting missing cattle early is vital in locating and returning them to their rightful owner.

"This outcome was the result of an early report to police, resulting in the cattle being found and returned quickly.

"The Rural Crime Prevention Team has the capability to respond right across the state, so anyone doing the wrong thing will eventually get caught and be dealt with under the full force of the law - which may include time in custody.

"Farmers and landholders who believe their stock may have been stolen should contact local police in the first instance. Reports can also be made to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000," Det Sgt Nott said.