South African police have recovered human remains from a crocodile-infested river during a search for a businessman swept away by flash floods in Mpumalanga province, authorities said.
The operation took place in the Komati River, where the victim’s vehicle was found stranded on a low bridge after being caught in raging floodwaters last week, according to police and provincial officials.
During the search, police divers and aerial teams identified a large crocodile on a small island along the river.
Captain Johan “Pottie” Potgieter, commander of the police diving unit, was lowered from a helicopter into the water to assist in the operation, which he described as highly dangerous.
“The sharp end of a crocodile is not the best place to approach it,” he said, reflecting on the risks involved.
The team later secured and neutralised a 4.5-metre crocodile before it was airlifted to Kruger National Park for examination. Upon inspection, experts discovered human remains inside the animal, with DNA testing underway to confirm whether they belong to the missing 59-year-old businessman, Gabriel Batista.
Investigators also reportedly found multiple items, including several shoes, inside the crocodile. Authorities said further analysis is ongoing to determine whether the findings are linked solely to the missing man or indicate other incidents.
Police said the crocodile showed signs of recent feeding and did not react to drone or helicopter activity during the search.
South Africa’s acting police chief praised Potgieter and his team for their role in the operation, calling it a difficult case that may help bring closure to the family