A police captain has been hailed as a hero after launching into a crocodile-infested river to help retrieve human remains inside a massive reptile.
Captain Johan “Pottie” Potgieter was lowered from a SANParks helicopter to secure the crocodile.
The high-risk operation, which officials have described as “highly dangerous and complex”, took place in the Komati River, South Africa.
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It unfolded after investigators began searching for a missing person – and made the grim discovery.
Suspected human remains were found inside the crocodile’s intestines.
Once the animal was secured with ropes, it was airlifted out of the water so experts could begin recovery and forensic examination, as reported by Need To Know.
The remains have now been sent for DNA testing to confirm the identity of the deceased.
Acting National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane, praised Captain Potgieter’s actions as an example of “the highest standards of service and dedication”.
She said the officer’s decision to enter the predator-filled waters showed “unwavering commitment” – especially in circumstances that could have cost him his life.
SAPS confirmed the crocodile had already been euthanised prior to the recovery operation, but described the environment as still extremely hazardous due to strong currents, submerged debris and wildlife activity.
The Komati River, which runs through parts of eastern South Africa near the Mozambique border, is known for its dense crocodile population and dangerous flood conditions.
Authorities believe the remains may belong to a missing person reported in recent days, who is thought to have been swept away in fast-moving waters.
The discovery came after officers noticed unusual activity from a large crocodile in the area, prompting a closer investigation that ultimately led to the grim find.
SAPS continue to treat the case as an ongoing missing persons investigation.
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