Two individuals, aged 30 and 38, are set to face trial at the Klawer Magistrate’s Court in the Western Cape following their apprehension for possessing protected plants valued at approximately R2.4 million.
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Their arrest occurred on Thursday as part of a collaborative intelligence-led initiative spanning Klawer and Vanrhynsdorp.
Captain Frederick van Wyk, spokesperson for the Western Cape police, disclosed that the operation involved personnel from the Vanrhynsdorp South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Department of Nature Conservation.
‘The members were deployed on the N7 highway to pursue the information due to the ongoing theft of indigenous plants in the area at their disposal. Their patience was rewarded when they noticed a suspicious motor vehicle on Thursday, 25 April at about 11pm.’
‘They gave chase and instructed the driver of the silver Toyota Avanza to stop. When the motor vehicle stopped, the occupants fled on foot, with police members in pursuit. The members apprehended the two suspects and detained them when they were found in possession of four bags containing flora,’ Van Wyk said.
According to IOL, the pair faces charges related to the theft of indigenous plants.
Meanwhile, in Cape Town, four additional suspects are slated to appear in the Cape Town Magistrate’s Court. They are accused of possessing both protected and unprotected indigenous flora, along with possession of abalone.
This group was apprehended on Friday, 26 April following an operation conducted by the Flying Squad at a location in Milnerton.
‘Members searched the house and found 1 109 units of abalone, with an estimated street value of R554 500 as well as fridges and an electronic scale. They also seized indigenous plants worth R500 000 at the premises.
‘Four suspects, between the ages of 28 and 38, were arrested and detained at Milnerton SAPS on charges of possession of protected and unprotected indigenous flora as well as possession of abalone,’ van Wyk said.
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Picture: @SAPoliceService / X