South African police have arrested a Zimbabwean national after recovering 151 protected cycads valued at an estimated R1.5 million during a late-night operation near Kariega in the Eastern Cape, while investigations continue to locate two additional suspects believed to have fled the scene.
According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), the operation began after a local farmer reported seeing several individuals removing protected cycads from a farm approximately 15 to 20 kilometres outside Kariega before transporting the plants towards the R75 highway.
The information prompted members of the Kariega Stock Theft and Endangered Species (STES) Unit to launch a surveillance operation, while the farmer continued monitoring the suspects from a safe distance.
Later that night, at around 11:30pm, police observed a suspicious vehicle stopping near the location where the cycads had earlier been concealed. Additional support was requested from the Kariega K9 Unit and visible policing officers before authorities moved in.
Two suspects escape as police recover protected plants
Police said the suspect vehicle eventually drove away before suddenly stopping on the roadside. Two occupants fled into nearby bushes, while officers arrested the driver at the scene.
The remaining suspects managed to escape on foot and are still being sought by investigators.
A search of the vehicle led to the recovery of 151 protected cycads of varying sizes. The plants have an estimated market value of approximately R1.5 million.
Authorities also confiscated a Mazda BT-50 bakkie, valued at around R100,000, which investigators believe was used during the commission of the alleged offence. A Samsung mobile phone was also seized as part of the investigation.
The 38-year-old suspect is scheduled to appear before the Kariega Magistrate’s Court on 2 July 2026, where he is expected to face charges relating to the unlawful possession of protected cycads under South Africa’s National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (NEMBA).
Cycads are among South Africa’s most protected indigenous plant species due to decades of illegal harvesting driven by demand from collectors. Unlawful possession, transport and trade of these endangered plants carry severe criminal penalties under environmental legislation.
Separate operation leads to suspected stolen meat arrest
In an unrelated incident, SAPS also announced the arrest of a 37-year-old man during a crime prevention operation in the North West province.
Police officers conducting a vehicle checkpoint along the N18 near Dry Harts Village stopped a blue Toyota Conquest shortly before 11pm on Tuesday.
During a search of the vehicle, officers discovered a large quantity of meat concealed beneath a blanket in the boot. Investigators suspect the meat may have been stolen.
The suspect is expected to appear before the Taung Magistrate’s Court on charges of possessing suspected stolen property while police continue investigating the origin of the meat and whether it is connected to livestock theft cases in the province.
Both investigations remain ongoing.
Source: Adapted from the South African Police Service (SAPS).