The vigilant members of Kanoeneiland SAPS were conducting crime prevention patrols in the early morning hours of Monday, 29 April 2024,when they spotted a white Nissan truck on the N14 near Kanoeneiland loaded with bags, which aroused suspicion. They stopped the truck and conducted a routine inspection, and it was discovered that the truck was transporting indigenous plants. The driver of the truck could not provide a valid permit or authority to possess or transport the plants.
Preliminary investigation by the Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit revealed that the plants are estimated at a total value of R180 000.00
The three male occupants have been placed in police custody facing a charge of illegal possession of protected plants.
During suspect screening, it was discovered that one of the suspects is a wanted suspect.
The trio aged 27, 35 and 37 respectively are expected to appear in Court soon.
The Provincial Commissioner of the Northern Cape, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, commended the members, Sergeant Ephraim Olyn and Constable Michelle Kasper for their vigilance and commendable work