By OBAKENG MAJE
Ten suspects were arrested by the Northern Cape police from Springbok Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit on Sunday. Northern Cape police spokesperson, Brig Mohale Ramatseba said the suspects were arrested in connection with a contravention of the Nature Conservation Act.
“The suspects aged between 24 and 37 years, were found to be in possession of protected plants in Upington. The police confiscated 4230 conophytum calculus plants, 3040 conophytum pageae plants, 480 conophytum globosum plants, 755 Conophytum roodeae plants and 280 conophytum uniforme plants.
“The plants are estimated at R400 000 value and two vehicles, a Chevrolet bakkie and Toyota Corolla that were used during the commission of the crime were also confiscated by the police. The suspects are expected to appear at the Upington Magistrates Court today,” he said.
The Namakwa Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit commander, Captain Karel du Toit commended members of Upington Public Order Police, Kimberley Crime Intelligence and Upington Technical Support Unit for their assistance during the operation.
The Guardian 