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Limpopo police were continuing the search for a 10-year-old boy who was reportedly “snatched” by a crocodile in the Phalala River this week.
The circumstances surrounding the disappearance of the boy on Tuesday have prompted the provincial commissioner, Major-General Jan Scheepers, to once again appeal to communities to exercise care around water sources.
According to a SAPS statement, members were summoned to the scene at Martinique village in Abbotspoort, which falls under the Villa Nora policing area.
Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said the missing child had been swimming with other young boys in the river.
“The boys alleged that they saw a crocodile snatching the victim. They then ran to the village and informed the elders.
“Community members were found gathered at the Phalala River,” he said.
Ledwaba said members of the provincial search and rescue unit scoured the scene and “while they were on the search a number of crocodiles were seen in the river.
He said “surprisingly”, some of the community members were also crossing the river".
Ledwaba said the search operation is still ongoing.
#sapsLIM A 10-year-old boy disappeared in crocodile infested waters at Martinique village in Abbotspoort on 06/02 while he was swimming with other young boys. SAPS #SearchAndRescue continue with their search in the Phalala River. Community members are urged to practice… pic.twitter.com/qZXBUC5daP
— SA Police Service ???????? (@SAPoliceService) February 9, 2024
