Metro53 - JOHANNESBURG: South African police have recovered human remains from a 15-foot crocodile that was airlifted from the Komati River after investigators suspected it may have consumed missing hotel owner Gabriel Batista.
Mr Batista, 59, had been missing after he was reportedly swept away by floodwaters while attempting to cross a bridge during heavy rains, police said. Search teams later identified a large crocodile whose unusual behaviour and swollen belly drew attention.
The recovery operation was led by police officer Johan Potgieter, who was lowered by helicopter to secure the reptile before it was lifted from the river. Authorities said the crocodile had been killed before the operation, though the mission remained highly dangerous because of other crocodiles and hippos in the area.
A post-mortem examination later found human remains inside the animal, including severed arms, part of a rib cage and a ring believed to belong to Mr Batista. Officials said DNA testing was under way to formally establish the identity of the remains.
Police officials praised Captain Potgieter for carrying out what they described as a high-risk operation under hazardous conditions.
