They were arrested after an intelligence-driven operation conducted by crime intelligence, Welkom Public Order Policing, and Odendaalsrus Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit which received information about suspects who loaded poison on a bakkie and a trailer on 11 May 2023, at about 17:15, travelling to Welkom. 

Provincial police spokesperson, Stephen Thakeng, explained that a joint operation team conducted a search on the Wesselsbron Road, three kilometres from Odendaalsrus, after receiving information that the suspects, aged 40, have a buyer in Welkom.

A bakkie matching the description provided to the police was stopped and searched.

The police confiscated 95×20 litres drums full of round-up poison.

"While members were busy searching, 95×20 litres drums full of round-up poison were found and no proper documentation could be provided, as requested by SAPS members. The bakkie's driver was also requested to accompany the police to his residence in Monyakeng, Wesselsbron. An additional 14×20 litres of drums full of round-up poison were found hidden. It was seized," said Thakeng.

He added that suspects were arrested, while a bakkie, trailer and drums with poison worth R436 000 were seized. Both suspects face charges of suspected stolen agricultural poison and are expected to appear in the Odendaalsrus Magistrate's Court soon.

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