Zimbabwean man arrested after 151 protected cycads seized near Kariega

A 38-year-old Zimbabwean national was arrested after police recovered 151 protected cycads near Kariega, in a case opened under the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act.

Farmer spots suspects removing cycads

According to police reports, a local farmer noticed several suspects removing cycads from a farm and carrying them towards the R75, approximately 15 to 20 kilometres outside Kariega, on Monday at around 2pm. The farmer reported the activity to authorities and continued to monitor the suspects from a distance.

Police observation and interception

Members of the Kariega Stock Theft and Endangered Species (STES) unit responded and conducted observation operations in the area. Around 11:30pm that evening, officers noticed a suspicious vehicle stop alongside the R75 near where the cycads had been moved earlier in the day.

Assistance was requested from the Kariega K9 Unit and visible policing members, who approached to identify the vehicle. The suspect vehicle drove past and was followed by the farmer’s vehicle. The suspect vehicle then pulled over; two occupants fled into nearby bushes and the driver was apprehended. The two remaining suspects escaped on foot.

Seizures and charges

Police recovered 151 protected cycads of various sizes, with an estimated value of approximately R1.5 million. A Mazda BT-50 bakkie, valued at approximately R100 000 and believed to have been used in the commission of the offence, along with a Samsung cellular phone, were also seized.

The arrested man is expected to appear at the Kariega Magistrate’s Court on 2 July 2026 and faces charges relating to the unlawful possession of protected cycads in contravention of the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act.

Investigations continue

Police said investigations are ongoing to trace the two outstanding suspects who fled. The matter remains under investigation by Kariega police and STES members.

Separate Saps report

In a separate Saps report included with the incident, officers also arrested a suspect for the possession of suspected stolen meat during a high-density operation on the N18 near Dry Harts Village. That suspect was expected to appear before the Taung Magistrate’s Court on a charge of possession of suspected stolen meat.