Seven crocodiles were safely captured along the R40 in Barberton on March 19 after eight escaped from a nearby crocodile farm. Unfortunately, one was killed after being struck by a vehicle.

The initial sighting was reported on a community WhatsApp group, and Hi-Tech Barberton was informed around 21:00 the same night.

Two Hi-Tech shift commanders, Rian Prinsloo and Christo Ruthven, along with Farmwatch chairperson Neil Grobler and Pieter Rademeyer, responded to the scene.

Upon arrival, they discovered six crocodiles, one of which had already been hit by a vehicle. The team worked to capture the crocodiles from 21:00 to 23:30.

At 01:00, Hi-Tech was contacted again by Barberton’s dumping site regarding another crocodile sighting.

Prinsloo, assisted by James Brickhill of the Umjindi Community Patrols (UCP), captured two additional crocodiles.

• Warning: This video contains strong language

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Hi-Tech and SANParks officials were called out after eight crocodiles escaped through a cut fence at a crocodile farm near the R40 outside Barberton.

♬ original sound – Lowveld Media

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UCP and Hi-Tech have been collaborating since 2019 to handle crocodile-related incidents.

All seven crocodiles were handed over to Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency and they were taken to a facility for further assessment.

The crocodiles measured approximately 2.5m and 3m in length, and the agency is currently determining their exact weight and size.

Hi-Tech urges the public to keep a safe distance if a crocodile is spotted and to contact them immediately.

They strongly advise against approaching or attempting to interact with crocodiles, as this could be fatal.

Motorists are also urged to reduce speed near the dumping site to avoid accidents and injuries to both people and animals, and to remain alert for any wildlife attempting to cross the road.

• This article was amended after publishing