Snake-catching Northern Cape policewoman saves the day
WHEN a venomous Cape cobra was spotted inside the Belmont SAPS Community Service Centre (CSC) on Sunday, Captain Joanita Becker, a SAPS pilot based in the Northern Cape, sprang into action. Her swift response not only showcased her commitment to safety but also her unique skill as a trained and registered snake catcher.
According to provincial police spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Sergio Kock, Captain Becker responded to a call for help and quickly arrived at the scene. She immediately located a puff adder outside the CSC and safely captured it before turning her attention to the Cape cobra, which had slithered into a filing cabinet inside the police station.
After a careful 20-minute search, Captain Becker successfully removed the highly venomous snake. Both reptiles were later released into their natural habitat, between 2km and 10km from where they were found, ensuring their survival while keeping the community safe.
The provincial commissioner of the SAPS in the Northern Cape, Lieutenant-General Koliswa Otola, praised Captain Becker’s efforts, commending her for going above and beyond her duties to protect both SAPS members and the public.
Captain Becker, who is part of the Northern Cape SAPS Airwing unit, completed her Level 1 and 2 snake-catching courses between 2019 and 2022 in Kimberley through the African Snakebite Institute. She is trained to identify, capture, and release snakes safely into the wild and can administer first aid to snakebite victims.
The Cape cobra and puff adder are among Africa's most dangerous and venomous snakes, with bites requiring immediate medical attention and anti-venom treatment.
Lieutenant-Colonel Kock shared important safety tips for the public to follow when encountering a snake:
- Do not approach the snake.
- Freeze and observe the snake's reaction.
- Back away slowly.
- Call for help from the local Wildlife Snake Rescue Institute.
What to do when bitten by a snake:
- Apply pressure to the wound and wrap it tightly with a bandage.
- Do not attempt to suck out the venom from the wound.
- Immobilise the affected limb and limit movement.
- Seek medical treatment immediately if you experience symptoms such as pain, swelling, dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
- Act quickly, as every second counts in saving a life.
For advice, contact the Poison Information Call Centre helpline at 0861 555 777.
