South African police have airlifted a crocodile after discovering what they believe to be human remains inside the animal, following a search for a missing businessman.
Officers said they initially tracked the crocodile using drones after suspecting it may have attacked and eaten a man in a flooded river area. The animal was subsequently shot and airlifted from the scene for examination.
When authorities later opened the crocodile on the ground, human remains were recovered. Police believe the remains may belong to 59-year-old businessman Gabriel Batista, who had been reported missing after being swept away in raging floodwaters.
Investigators said Batista had attempted to drive over a flooded bridge on Monday in an effort to reach his hotel and bar, but his vehicle was swept into the river. He is believed to have been carried downstream, where crocodiles were present.
A ring believed to belong to Batista was reportedly found inside the crocodile, along with six pairs of shoes. Authorities fear the additional items may belong to other potential victims in the area.
It remains unclear whether Batista was already deceased before being attacked, but officials believe further remains may have been consumed by other crocodiles in the river system.
Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.