Seven crocodiles were captured along the R40 near Barberton after escaping from a nearby crocodile farm through a cut fence.
The incident prompted a coordinated overnight response by Hi-Tech Barberton, POLSEC, and the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Board to secure the animals and prevent further risk to motorists and nearby communities.
However, according to Hi-Tech Barberton, one of the crocodiles was killed after being struck by a motor vehicle during the incident. The crocodiles are said to have measured between 2.5 m and 3 m in length.
“Hi-Tech Barberton, POLSEC, and the Mpumalanga Parks Board successfully captured 7 crocodiles (measuring between 2.5m and 3m) along the R40 after they escaped through a cut fence from a crocodile farm,” Hi-Tech Barberton said.
“Sadly, one crocodile was killed after being struck by a motor vehicle. A sincere thank you to all teams involved for their swift response and professionalism, ensuring the safety of both the community and the animals”
According to reports, all seven surviving crocodiles were safely captured and handed over to the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Board for further assessment.
Back in 2021, IOL reported that twenty Nile crocodiles that escaped from the Jan Hoppie Crocodile Farm in Bonnievale were euthanised after authorities said “time is of the essence” in prioritising public safety.
An unknown number of crocodiles had escaped from the breeding facility, with 50 later accounted for. CapeNature confirmed that 30 were recaptured alive, while 20 were euthanised.
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Mthobisi Nozulela
iol.co.za
