News

Four suspected smugglers were arrested by the Jansenville SAPS on their way to Gauteng last week. They appeared in the Jansenville Magistrate”s Court yesterday for allegedly removing the endangered cycads worth over R2-million. They will remain in custody until next week while the investigation continues. The suspects are being investigated for ties to a South African syndicate that specialises in trading in cycads. The bust has been described as the largest of its kind in the Eastern Cape.

The truck with two cargo containers was taken to Addo Elephant National Park, where the trees were carefully hoisted out of the containers. A suitable area has been identified for them to be replanted in the park. They are estimated to be between 500 and 1 000 years old. Conservation officials have a three-week window period in which to replant the trees. The root systems of the trees are extremely sensitive, and it is hoped that the majority will thrive once more once replanted.

Issued by:
South African National Parks (SANParks) Frontier Region Communications

Enquiries:
Fayroush Ludick
Regional Manager: Communications, SANParks
Tel: (012) 426 5371, Cell: 082 888 0201
Email: [email protected]