A case of illegal harvesting and transporting of poles and parts of protected plant species without a permit has been opened by the police in the Omusati Region after 114 mopane poles were confiscated. The suspect, who is known but yet to be arrested, allegedly committed the crime at an unknown time and date at Omatemba village in the Ruacana Constituency. Crime Investigation Coordinator, Deputy Commissioner Moses Simaho, said the suspect allegedly cut down mopane trees, which are protected plants, without a permit. "We recovered 114 mopane poles that were cut with an axe. The value of the poles is yet to be determined," he said. He indicated that the police investigation into the matter continues.