Two foreign nationals nabbed near Springbok with bakkie full of endangered plants

IN THE early hours of Monday morning, police officers on night shift patrol along the R382 road noticed a white Toyota Hilux bakkie fitted with a canopy. Two men were seen changing the tyres of the vehicle. Upon searching the bakkie, police discovered it was loaded with endangered plants worth a substantial amount.

Two foreign national males, aged 36 and 42, were arrested on the scene. The suspects are expected to appear in the Springbok Magistrate’s Court soon.

The investigation is ongoing, and the police have appealed 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 MySAPS app. "All information will be treated with the strictest confidentiality," the police stated.