By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

22 September 2025- Two foreign nationals aged 36 and 42 were arrested by the Springbok Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit for dealing in endangered plants. This comes after the police officers on night shift patrols along the R382 road noticed a white Toyota Hilux bakkie fitted with a canopy.

The Namakwa District police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Magerman said the two men were allegedly seen changing the tyres of the vehicle in the early hours of Monday morning, 22 September 2025 at approximately 03:20am. Magerman said upon searching the bakkie, police allegedly discovered it was loaded with endangered plants worth a substantial amount.

“Two foreign nationals were arrested on the scene. The two men are expected to appear in the Springbok Magistrate’s Court soon. The investigation is ongoing and the police appeal to anyone with information to contact the investigating officer, Detective Sergeant Wynand van den Heever of the Springbok Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit, on 060 963 6183, or call the SAPS Crime Stop number 08600 10111.

“Information can also be shared via the My SAPS App. All information will be treated with the strictest confidentiality,” he said.

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