The five people who were arrested in Kariega after being found in possession of cycads with an estimated value of R1m made a brief appearance 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 grey Hyundai vehicle travelling from Cockscomb to Kariega and seized 72 stolen plants.
The police were acting on a tip-off.
Also read: Five arrested for being in possession of cycads
Police spokesperson, Captain Sandra Janse van Rensburg had earlier said two suspects made a run for it while the vehicle was being processed.
In the process, one man was shot in the leg.
The accused will appear in court again on 25 November for a formal bail application.
