A week-long search along the crocodile-infested waters of the Komati River has ended in a chilling discovery, with human remains recovered from inside a crocodile near Komatipoort.
Screenshot from IOL (@iolnews) on TikTok
According to IOL, authorities believe the remains may belong to a 59-year-old Gauteng businessman who went missing after attempting to cross a low-lying bridge during recent flooding. His vehicle was later found trapped in the river, prompting an extensive multi-agency search effort.
The operation brought together teams from the South African Police Service, search and rescue units, and other emergency responders. Despite challenging conditions, including strong currents and a high concentration of crocodiles, efforts continued for several days.
@iolnews A video captures the dramatic moment a crocodile is hauled from the Komati River after human remains were found inside the reptile. 📷: Supplied #crocodile #hauled #KomatiRiver #human #remains ♬ original sound – IOL NEWS
Investigators eventually identified a crocodile suspected of being involved in the incident. With the necessary permissions secured, the animal was euthanised. It was during the subsequent examination that human remains were discovered and retrieved.
While authorities say the findings point strongly to the missing man, forensic confirmation is still pending. DNA testing will be conducted to formally establish the identity.
The incident underscores the dangers of crossing flooded low-water bridges, particularly in regions where wildlife and fast-moving rivers intersect. In this case, a routine journey appears to have turned fatal in a matter of moments.
Officials have not yet released the name of the missing man. Investigations remain ongoing.
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