the theft of sheep, goats and cows along with tractors and irrigation equipment, is one of the most difficult problems confronted by farmers in israel. about 400 cases are reported annually in the north of the country, and in the south, farmers compare the situation to the wild west. they suffer millions of shekels in annual losses. most of the stolen livestock is taken to the west bank, quickly slaughtered and then smuggled back into israel, where it is sold by butchers to unsuspecting customers.