Police officer tells of operation to retrieve human remains from crocodile
BBC • • world
Key Points:
- Captain Johan Potgieter, a South African police officer, was lowered from a helicopter into a crocodile-infested river to recover human remains suspected to be inside a crocodile.
- The operation followed the disappearance of a businessman swept away by floodwaters in the Komati River, whose car was found stranded on a low bridge.
- The 4.5-meter, 500-kilogram crocodile was shot by police and later confirmed to contain remains and shoes, with DNA tests underway for identification.
- Due to the presence of multiple crocodiles, hippos, and rocks, aerial access was the only safe method for recovery, and Potgieter described the mission as highly dangerous and unprecedented in his 38-year career.
- South Africa's acting police chief praised Potgieter's bravery, and the officer emphasized the importance of providing closure to grieving families despite the risks involved.
