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The five people who were arrested in Kariega after they were found in possession of cicadas with an estimated value of R1m appeared in the Kariega Magistrates’ Court on Monday.

Khaya Moyo, Ngqobutho Ngawbe, Godfrey Makhohdo, Oalabahle Ndlovu and Mnqobi Sibamda were arrested on 8 November.

Members of the Kariega K9 Unit and officers attached to the Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit stopped a gray Hyundai vehicle traveling from Cockscomb to Kariega and seized 72 stolen plants.

The police acted on a tip-off.

Read also: Five arrested for being in possession of cicadas

Police spokesperson Captain Sandra Janse van Rensburg previously said two suspects ran after him while the vehicle was being processed.

In the process, a man was shot in the leg.

The accused will appear in court again on November 25 for a formal bail application.