The Northern Cape Division of the High Court has granted the Hawks Asset Forfeiture Investigation Unit and the National Prosecuting Authority’s (NPA) Asset Forfeiture Unit a forfeiture order for five vehicles, including two small trucks, with a combined value exceeding R1.8 million. The seizures stem from separate incidents involving illegal activities ranging from environmental violations to drug possession and unlawful transportation of gambling machines.
First Case: Isuzu Truck with Protected Plants
In April 2024, Kanoneiland Crime Prevention members intercepted an Isuzu truck valued at R950,000 near Upington. The vehicle was found loaded with various protected plants in violation of the National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act (NEMBA). Authorities confiscated the truck, leading to the recent forfeiture order.
Second Case: Hyundai Sedan with Drugs and Cash
On the afternoon of 26 May 2024, Groblershoop Police stopped and searched a Hyundai sedan worth R110,000. The search uncovered various drugs and an undisclosed amount of cash inside the vehicle. Both the car and its contents were seized for further investigation before being forfeited to the State.
Third Case: Mercedes-Benz with Hydroponic Cannabis
Also in May 2024, Border Police pulled over a Mercedes-Benz sedan during a routine operation. Upon searching the vehicle, officers discovered hydroponic cannabis inside. The car, valued at R324,000, was seized and later forfeited following an application by the Hawks and NPA’s Asset Forfeiture Unit.
Fourth Case: Toyota Corolla with Dagga and Mandrax
On the morning of 12 July 2024, Phillipstown SAPS members conducted a vehicle checkpoint where they stopped a Toyota Corolla. A search revealed dagga and Mandrax tablets inside. The drugs and the vehicle, worth R132,000, were confiscated by police.
Fifth Case: Truck Transporting Illegal Gambling Machines
In an earlier incident on 4 March 2023, Kuruman Police stopped a truck carrying gambling machines without the required permits. The machines and the truck, valued at R275,000, were booked into SAP13 for further investigation. The court later approved the forfeiture of the truck.
