Stolen Nile crocodile worth R25,000 rescued, 3 men arrested in North West

THREE men are set to appear before the Klerksdorp Magistrate’s Court on Monday for contravention of the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act after they were allegedly found in possession of a Nile crocodile.

The accused were arrested on Thursday afternoon, April 20, after Stilfontein Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit members received information that a Nile crocodile was stolen from a crocodile farm in Hartebeesfontein, North West police spokesperson Colonel Adéle Myburgh said.

The investigation led the team to an abandoned farmhouse where a 2.5-metre-long Nile crocodile valued at R25,000 was discovered hidden under tree branches.

Police arrested the three men and seized a bakkie which was allegedly used in committing the crime.

The reptile has since been returned to its owner.

IOL