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South African Police Recover Human Remains from Crocodile in Search for Missing Businessman
A police officer was lowered from a helicopter into the Komati River to retrieve a euthanized crocodile suspected of consuming a missing 59-year-old businessman swept away by floodwaters. Human remains were found inside the 15-foot reptile during an examination at Kruger National Park. DNA tests will confirm if the remains belong to the missing man.
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South African police recovered human remains from a 15-foot crocodile in the Komati River during a search for a 59-year-old businessman who went missing last week after his vehicle was swept away by floodwaters. The man attempted to cross a low bridge over the flooded river, but authorities found his car abandoned and empty upon arrival.
Police launched an extensive search using drones and helicopters, spotting a small island where several crocodiles were basking. One crocodile stood out due to its massively full stomach and unusual stillness despite the noise from aircraft, leading officers to suspect it had recently consumed a substantial meal. Authorities euthanized the 1,100-pound reptile before recovery.
Captain Johan "Pottie" Potgieter, commander of a police diving unit, was lowered from a helicopter into the crocodile-infested waters to secure the carcass with a rope. An examination revealed human remains in the crocodile's intestines, along with six different types of footwear.
“The sharp-end of a crocodile is not the best place to approach it." — Captain Johan "Pottie" Potgieter, to News24 (GB News, BBC News). Potgieter noted that while the shoes could indicate previous victims, crocodiles will swallow anything, so firm conclusions should not be drawn.”
Mpumalanga provincial police spokesperson Colonel Mavela Masondo stated that the businessman was suspected to have been carried away by powerful currents. DNA testing is underway to determine if the remains belong to the missing 59-year-old. South Africa's acting police chief, Lt-Gen Puleng Dimpane, commended Potgieter's actions.
“Capt Potgieter's willingness to place his own life at risk, going far beyond the call of duty, reflects the unwavering commitment of SAPS members to serve and protect, even in the face of danger that could have cost him his life." — Lt-Gen Puleng Dimpane (GB News, BBC News). Police described the mission as highly dangerous and complex, highlighting the risks involved in the north-eastern region's crocodile-infested waters.”
