NORTHERN CAPE - The Springbok Stock Theft and Endangered Species unit, Springbok Highway Patrol and Provincial SAPS Corporate Communication conducted a Vehicle Check Point (VCP) on the N14 between Pofadder and Springbok.

This police action led to the arrest a 35-year-old male suspect for illegal possession and transportation of protected plants.

The disruptive action was held on Tuesday, 1 February 2022 at about 23:00 and resulted in the confiscation of 5579 Conophytum plants. The suspect was traveling from Pofadder enroute to Springbok and allegedly tossed out a black bag with the protected plants from the vehicle before being flagged off the road by SAPS members.

He was arrested and will be appearing in the Springbok Magistrates' Court soon.

The Acting District Commander for Namakwa, Col Schalk Andrews commended the team for their vigilance and determination in addressing the illegal poaching of protected plants.

SAPS will continue with the assistance and cooperation of external role players and the community, to protect the fauna and flora indigenous to the Namaqua area. End

Source: South African Police Service