Captain Johan 'Pottie' Potgieter with the crocodile containing human remains.
Image: SAPS
Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane, the Acting National Police Commissioner, commended a police captain for his extraordinary act of bravery in rescuing a euthanised crocodile from the Komati River.
Captain Johan "Pottie" Potgieter has been described as selfless, and his actions as an example of the highest standards of service and dedication.
The retrieval of the crocodile from the crocodile-infested waters comes after human remains were found inside the animal, with police believing they may belong to a missing businessman on Saturday, May 2.
Komatipoort is a small town in Mpumalanga, on South Africa’s eastern border with Mozambique, near the Kruger National Park.
The national police spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, explained how the removal of the crocodile took place.
“In a highly dangerous and complex operation along the Komati River, Captain Potgieter was hoisted from a SANPARKS helicopter into the crocodile-infested river, where he courageously secured a crocodile using a rope under extremely dangerous conditions. The animal, which was already euthanised, was then safely lifted and relocated, enabling the police and other experts to recover the remains of a suspected missing person,” she said.
The discovery of the remains means that the police have now taken the body parts found in the intestines of the crocodile for DNA analysis to confirm the identity of the deceased.
Lieutenant General Dimpane said the police captain went above the call of duty.
“Captain Potgieter’s willingness to place his own life at risk, going far beyond the call of duty, reflects the unwavering commitment of SAPS members to serve and protect, even in the face of danger that could have cost him his life,” she said.
The Commissioner also saluted Captain Potgieter for his heroism, bravery, professionalism, and dedication.
“His actions are a reminder of the courage and sacrifice demonstrated daily by members of the South African Police Service,” she added.
Previously, police said the 59-year-old Gauteng businessman, had been reported missing after his Ford Ranger was found trapped at a low-lying bridge in the river.
A crocodile was later identified during the search and was believed to have been involved in the incident.