According to South Africa Police, this "extremely dangerous and complex" operation followed a week-long search for businessman Gabriel Batista.

Last week, Batista's vehicle, belonging to the 59-year-old, was found empty after getting stuck while attempting to cross a low bridge over a flooded river. Police arriving at the scene suspected he had been swept away by the current.

Authorities utilized drones and helicopters for the search, discovering a small island on the Komati River where many crocodiles were basking. They identified one crocodile that had recently eaten due to its distended belly, and it did not move or attempt to enter the water despite the noise.

The 4,5 m long, 500 kg crocodile was shot. Captain Johan Potgieter was then lowered from a helicopter into the river, where he secured the animal with ropes, and both were pulled from the water.

The crocodile was transported by aircraft to nearby Kruger National Park. Human remains were discovered inside its stomach. Police stated the remains would be sent for DNA testing to identify the victim.

Additionally, authorities found six different types of shoes in its stomach, suggesting the crocodile may have killed other individuals or simply "eats or swallows anything".

By Tue Anh (based on BBC, Independent)