Two cages equipped with CCTV cameras and remote notification technology are being used to capture and relocate a crocodile in the Old Willow area of the Vaal River. 

The crocodile was first spotted in the area about two weeks ago and has so far avoided capture. 

The operation is being conducted by Crocodile VDM, an organisation from Pongola in KZN, led by Charles van der Merwe and Robert Slaughter, in collaboration with the SAPS Water Policing and Diving Services. 

Slaughter says they suspect the crocodile is of the slender-snouted species. 

“Earlier this month, we received a WhatsApp message from a resident who spotted the crocodile and from a picture that was sent to our team, the crocodile’s size looks to be roughly 2.5 to 3m long,” explains Slaughter. 

Possible pet 

He adds that the organisation does not believe the crocodile came from the wild because the area is not close to the species’ natural habitat.  
 
“We believe it is a pet or could have escaped from captivity, a sanctuary or a crocodile farm. It really is a mysterious one.”  

He adds that on August 16, their team placed two cages near the river with chicken as bait. 

“Both cages are equipped with CCTV cameras and remote notification technology linked directly to Charles’s phone. The moment there is movement around either cage, Charles receives an alert on his phone to check the camera footage. We use a chicken as bait because it is a crocodile’s favourite food.”

Stay away from the water 

He says the team plans to return to the river next week to search for the croc. 

“I appeal to the community to stay clear of the water and the cages. If they sight the crocodile, they need to call us immediately.” 

Breaking news at your fingertips… Follow Caxton Network News on Facebook and join our WhatsApp channel.

Nuus wat saakmaak. Volg Caxton Netwerk-nuus op Facebook en sluit aan by ons WhatsApp-kanaal.