Potgieter lowered for 500kg crocodile recovery in Johan Potgieter Crocodile River Rescue
Pottie Potgieter was lowered by rope from a helicopter during the johan potgieter crocodile river rescue near Komatipoort on Saturday, then helped recover a crocodile carcass tied to the search for missing businessman Gabriel Batista. The operation ended with human body parts being removed from the animal after it was flown about 5km into the Kruger National Park.
Potgieter, the commander of the police diving unit in the Lowveld, said the team had tracked a massive 4.5m crocodile weighing about 500kg after a drone showed crocodiles basking on a small, bushy island in the Crocodile River. He said he was lowered so close to the carcass that he almost landed on the crocodile’s head.
Batista Search Near Komatipoort
The search began on 27 April after Batista’s Ford Ranger got stuck on the flooded Komatipoort low-water bridge near the town’s golf club. He is suspected to have been swept away after climbing out of his bakkie and trying to cross the bridge to the Border Country Inn, which he owned.
That connection made the crocodile a focus before Saturday’s recovery. The reptile had shown signs of recent feeding, and a necropsy was carried out on Saturday afternoon after a South African National Parks helicopter and a park ranger shot it.
Potgieter’s Rope Recovery
Potgieter said the team saw the island and the basking crocodiles through a drone used during the search. He also said the crocodile did not move or try to slip into the river despite the noise from the drones and the chopper.
He was then lowered with a rope attached to the helicopter to recover the carcass after it had been shot. Potgieter tied a rope around the reptile’s chest, and the helicopter airlifted both away.
The chopper flew about 5km into the Kruger National Park, where the carcass was dropped off. When it was cut open, the remains recovered included two human arms, part of a rib cage and a piece of chest flesh.
DNA Tests on Human Remains
Six different types and sizes of shoes, sneakers and flip-flops were also found in the crocodile’s intestines. DNA testing still needs to be done to identify the human remains and link them to Batista.
Acting national police commissioner Puleng Dimpane praised Potgieter’s work, saying his actions were an example of the highest standards of service and dedication. She also said his willingness to risk his own life reflected the commitment of South African Police Service members to serve and protect, even in danger that could have cost him his life.
