A truck that was stopped by N3TC officers on the N3 near the Winteron turn-off last night just after 6pm left officers scrambling to catch its deadly escaping cargo…  The scene would only be cleared after 9pm.

The truck was carrying close to 3000 juvenile crocodiles  when it was stopped and searched.  The officers had spotted crocodiles peering out of the cargo hold as they drove past and it was stopped. As officers questioned the driver, they realised it had an expired permit to transport the crocs. Pandemonium then broke out as some of the truck’s cargo managed to break free; one was killed by a passing vehicle as others attempted to escape.

Farmers in the area also responded, fearing that the crocodiles might take up residence in the Tugela River and threaten livestock on their farms.

N3TC officers, wildlife officers, farmers and the driver were left scrambling to catch the fleeing reptiles.

At this stage, it is unclear if any managed to escape, but those on scene doubt it.

The crocodiles were being transported to Limpopo. However, because of the permit issue, they are now being returned to where they came from, accompanied by wildlife officers.

The cargo was secured using shade cloth supplied by a local farmer.