Law enforcement officers swooped on a property in Petersfield, Springs, yesterday (May 25) after receiving information that a resident was allegedly keeping two crocodiles and two tortoises without the required permits.

According to Gauteng Police Emergency Services media liaison officer Warrant Officer Grant Giblin, an application for a search warrant was made and approved at the Springs magistrate’s court to enter and search the mentioned property.

Springs Advertiser reports that members from Tshwane K9 Unit, the Gauteng Department of Environment, and the Vereeniging Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit arrived at the property at around 10:00. They were accompanied by the Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital and the Springs SPCA. The owner was not present at the time and members were escorted on the property by an alleged manager of his company.

During the search, a black steel enclosure measuring approximately 5.6m by 1.8m was discovered with two Nile crocodiles inside, and a small blue splash pool.

The crocodiles measured 1.48m and 1.7m in length.

The owner of the premises had allegedly been keeping them for more than two years and did not possess the required permits. No tortoises were discovered.

The crocodiles were seized and handed over to the Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital for medical treatment and housing.

Giblin stated a criminal case was opened at Springs SAPS for the keeping of threatened or protected species without a permit. The investigation continues.

People intending to keep any form of exotic pets or wildlife are encouraged to first find out about the laws protecting and pertaining to specific species as well as if lawful permits are obtainable.

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