Published：May 3, 15:47Last updated：May 6, 10:22

Crocodile Attack Claims South African Businessman

May. 3, 2026 15:47

A police officer in South Africa was lowered into a crocodile-infested river to recover human remains believed to be those of a businessman swept away by floodwaters. The operation took place in the Komati River, northeast of South Africa, on May 3, 2026. The crocodile suspected of eating the man was killed before the recovery mission, described as highly dangerous and complex.

Summarized

15News

6Media

May. 5, 2026 17:35

Police are conducting DNA tests to confirm if remains found inside a crocodile belong to a missing man. An officer described the operation to retrieve the remains, which was carried out recently. The incident underscores the dangers posed by wildlife in certain regions. Authorities are awaiting test results to proceed with identification.

May. 6, 2026 10:22

Police in South Africa airlifted a massive crocodile suspected of eating a missing resident. The operation took place on May 6, 2026, after a search involving drones and helicopters. The crocodile was found in a bask of crocodiles, highlighting the dangers of the bush.

A South African businessman was tragically killed and partially consumed by a Nile crocodile after being swept away by floodwaters in the Komati River. The 59-year-old man went missing on April 27, 2026, while attempting to drive across a submerged bridge. Authorities launched a dangerous recovery mission, euthanizing a 4.5-meter crocodile suspected of the attack and discovering human remains and six shoes in its stomach. DNA testing is underway to confirm the victim's identity.BBC News+2

🚨 Dangerous Recovery Operation

South African police conducted a high-risk operation to retrieve the remains from the crocodile-infested Komati River. Using helicopters and drones, officers located and euthanized the bloated crocodile, which showed signs of recent feeding. The operation involved airlifting the massive reptile and recovering fragments of arms, ribs, and chest tissue from its intestines.China.org+2

🐊 Crocodile Attack Details

The Nile crocodile, measuring 4.5 meters and weighing 500 kilograms, was found to contain human remains and six shoes, suggesting additional victims. The crocodile was euthanized due to its lethargic state and the presence of human remains in its stomach. This incident underscores the dangers of wildlife in the region, where crocodile attacks are not uncommon.Russian Gazette+2

🌊 Floodwaters and Human-Wildlife Conflict

The businessman was swept away by strong floodwaters while attempting to cross a submerged bridge. The Komati River is a known crocodile habitat, and this incident highlights the ongoing human-wildlife conflicts in the area. Authorities have urged caution during flood seasons to prevent similar tragedies.China.org+2

FloodwatersKomati RiverNile crocodileMissing businessmanSouth African Police