Crocodile sighting in the Vaal: police set capture cage, R20,000 reward offered

A crocodile estimated at 3 metres long has been spotted in the Vaal River, prompting a capture‑and‑relocation operation and a community alert, according to The Citizen.

Capture plan under way

According to The Citizen, a dedicated team from the South African Police Service’s Water Policing and Diving Services, led by Charles Van Der Merwe and Stephan, has put a capture‑and‑relocation plan in place.

With the necessary permits secured and procedures followed, the capture cage was officially set this week. The team will monitor the cage closely while waiting for the crocodile to take the bait, The Citizen reports.

Safety advice for residents

The Citizen says residents have been advised to avoid swimming, skiing, tubing and other water activities in the area until the animal is located, captured and moved. Officials have also reminded the public to report confirmed sightings rather than approach the animal, while continuing to enjoy the river sensibly.

Relocation and species notes

The stated aim of the operation is to ensure the crocodile is safely relocated to a more suitable environment, balancing public safety with animal welfare, according to Celebrating the Vaal River on Facebook, as cited by The Citizen.

Experts quoted by The Citizen believe the crocodile is a West African slender‑snouted crocodile, a species described as feeding mainly on fish and rarely attacking humans. The Citizen reports that adult males of this species typically reach 3–4 metres in length and weigh between 125–325 kg, with exceptional individuals growing up to 4.5 metres.

Community reward and how to report sightings

The Citizen reports the Vaal River Croc Spotters reward has been increased to a R20,000 WaterSports Mania voucher, provided in collaboration with Vaal River Rats South Africa and a private donor. The reward will be issued for information that directly leads to the safe capture of the crocodile by the relevant authorities.

If anyone spots the crocodile in the Vaal River, The Citizen says they should contact the Vanderbijlpark SAPS at 016‑910‑9014 or the national Stop Crime line. The Water Wing does not have a direct public line for specialised diving units, The Citizen adds.

What authorities are asking

• Report confirmed sightings to the listed contacts.
• Do not approach or attempt to capture the animal.
• Avoid recreational water activities in the affected area until the crocodile is removed.