On Monday, 25 May 2026, a coordinated operation involving Tshwane K9, the Gauteng Department of Environment, the Vereeniging Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit, the Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital, and the Springs SPCA was carried out at a residence in Springs following information that two tortoises and two crocodiles were being kept without the required permits.
A search warrant, approved by the Springs Magistrate’s Court, was obtained to allow authorities to enter and search the property. The joint team arrived at around 10:00 to execute the warrant. The property owner was not present, and officials were escorted inside by an alleged manager of the owner’s company
During the search, officers discovered a black steel enclosure measuring approximately 5.6 metres by 1.8 metres, containing two Nile crocodiles and a small blue splash pool. The crocodiles measured 1.48 metres and 1.7 metres respectively and were reportedly kept at the property for more than two years. No tortoises were found.
The crocodiles were confiscated and transferred to the Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital for medical care and housing.
A case has been opened at SAPS Springs for alleged contravention of the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act relating to the unlawful keeping of protected species without a permit. Investigations are ongoing.
Authorities have urged members of the public who intend to keep exotic animals or wildlife to ensure they are aware of the legal requirements and permit regulations governing such species.
A search warrant, approved by the Springs Magistrate’s Court, was obtained to allow authorities to enter and search the property. The joint team arrived at around 10:00 to execute the warrant. The property owner was not present, and officials were escorted inside by an alleged manager of the owner’s company
During the search, officers discovered a black steel enclosure measuring approximately 5.6 metres by 1.8 metres, containing two Nile crocodiles and a small blue splash pool. The crocodiles measured 1.48 metres and 1.7 metres respectively and were reportedly kept at the property for more than two years. No tortoises were found.
The crocodiles were confiscated and transferred to the Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital for medical care and housing.
A case has been opened at SAPS Springs for alleged contravention of the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act relating to the unlawful keeping of protected species without a permit. Investigations are ongoing.
Authorities have urged members of the public who intend to keep exotic animals or wildlife to ensure they are aware of the legal requirements and permit regulations governing such species.