3m crocodile spotted in Vaal River as SAPS sets capture-and-relocation plan

A roughly 3‑metre crocodile has been seen in the Vaal River, prompting a capture‑and‑relocation operation led by the South African Police Service’s Water Policing and Diving Services.

What authorities are doing

The specialised SAPS team, led by Charles Van Der Merwe and Stephan, has developed a capture plan and set a capture cage this week. Authorities say the team obtained the necessary permits and will monitor the cage while waiting for the animal to take the bait.

Public safety advice

Residents have been asked to avoid swimming, skiing, tubing and other water activities in the area until the crocodile is located, captured and relocated. Officials have urged people to report confirmed sightings rather than approach the animal.

How to report sightings and reward

Anyone who spots the crocodile is asked to contact the Vanderbijlpark SAPS at 016 910 9014 or the national Stop Crime line. A reward of R20,000 in a WaterSports Mania voucher has been offered by Vaal River Rats South Africa and a private donor for information that directly leads to the safe capture of the crocodile.

About the animal

Experts believe the animal is a West African slender‑snouted crocodile. The source describes this species as timid and medium‑sized, primarily fish‑eating and rarely attacking humans. The report gives adult male size ranges of 3–4 metres and weights between 125–325 kg, with exceptional individuals up to 4.5 metres. It also notes that most fatal crocodile incidents in Africa involve the larger Nile crocodile, not this species.

Community response

The Vaal community has been put on alert while authorities monitor the area and work to capture the animal. Officials thanked residents for continuing to report sightings, which have assisted the operation.