Three suspects were arrested in Garies on Monday, 2 February 2026 at approximately 22:00 on the N7 road for being illegally in possession of protected species in Contravention of the Northern Cape Nature Conservation Act 9/2009, Sections 3 and 4. The suspects aged, 21, 29 and 37 were apprehended following a high-speed pursuit after they failed to stop when directed by police officials. An off-duty police official, received information from the Station Commander, of a red VW Golf with three male occupants allegedly involved in illegal activities related to Armadillo girdled lizards in the area. At approximately 21:45, police members spotted the vehicle and attempted to stop it. The driver drove recklessly in an attempt to evade arrest. During the pursuit, the complainant observed the suspects throwing objects from the vehicle, which were later identified as Armadillo girdled lizards. The three males were successfully apprehended and were returned to the crime scene where they were formally arrested. A total 84 armadillo girdled lizards with an estimated value of t R123 000-00 were recovered and booked into evidence. The Volkswagen Golf was seized as it was used in the commission of crime. The three suspects are expected to appear in the Garies Magistrate's Court soon. The case has been allocated to the Springbok Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit (STESU) for further investigation.