Sundumbili residents in Mandeni in KZN had an unexpected visitor last night – a 3.3m crocodile that was found between houses behind the police station.

Samantha Mayrick from IPSS Search and Rescue says a call for assistance came from the Sundumbili police at around 22:00.

The challenging task of capturing the crocodile was made possible with the help of local sugar cane and macadamia farmer Ashton Musgrave, she adds.

The community’s co-operation played a crucial role and Musgrave commended them for their restraint and assistance during the capture.

“I am waiting for an expert who will give us more details, such as its gender and age,” he says.

The crocodile will be relocated to a new home in a private game reserve in Hluhluwe.

It is speculated that the croc may have been residing at a sewage treatment plant in the area or it ventured out from the nearby Tugela River.

Last night’s co-operative effort highlighted the importance of community involvement in wildlife management, ensuring the safe relocation of potentially dangerous animals.