Residents of Mabikiri Village in Makhushane have finally captured a crocodile that had been terrorising the community for months, bringing a sense of relief to Locals who live and work near the Selati River.
The reptile was captured on Monday morning after a prolonged period of fear among residents who depend on the river for fishing, washing, and other daily activities. Community members say the crocodile had become a serious threat, with sightings reported regularly along the riverbanks.
The animal is believed to be the same crocodile that attacked a fisherman during the January floods near Mabikiri Village. The victim was reportedly fishing along the river when he was suddenly attacked, sustaining serious injuries to his hands during the encounter. The incident left residents deeply concerned about safety in the area, particularly for those who frequently use the river.
Following the attack, members of the Mabikiri community decided to take action. Over several weeks, residents organised themselves to monitor the river and track the crocodile's movements. Their efforts eventually paid off when the reptile was located and captured early Monday.
The successful capture has been widely welcomed in Mabikiri, where many people had grown increasingly anxious about venturing near the river. Parents had reportedly warned children to stay away from the water, while fishermen become reluctant to continue their usual activities.
For now, however, residents say the capture marks an important victory for the village and has restored a sense of safety for families who rely on the Selati River for their livelihoods.
