Members from Tshwane K9, Gauteng Department of Environment, Vereeniging Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit, Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital and the Springs SPCA swooped on a residence in Springs on May 25 after receiving information that a resident in Petersfield was allegedly keeping two tortoises and two crocodiles without the required permits.

According to Police Emergency Services Gauteng 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.

Armed with the warrant, the combined units arrived at the property at around 10:00 to execute the search.

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.

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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 Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital for medical treatment and housing.

Giblin stated a criminal case was opened at Springs SAPS for Contravention of the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act for Keeping of Threatened or Protected Species without a permit and the investigation continues.

Persons 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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