South Africa
An unknown number of young and dangerous crocodiles escaped from a breeding farm in South Africa's Western Cape province, authorities said on Thursday.
Police have set up a special unit to track down the Nile crocodiles, which measure between 1.2 and 1.5 meters in length, said CapeNature, the region's environmental service.
The breeder realised on Wednesday morning there was a hole in the fence and that an "undetermined number of crocodiles had escaped," said James-Brent Styan, spokesperson for the province's Ministry of the Environment.
Police, environmental associations, landowners and farmers "are conducting research" concentrated around the nearby Breede River, he said.
So-far 27 crocodiles have been recovered.
They are being captured by "human traps, namely cages in which are placed bait, arranged along the river," said Razeena Omar, CEO of Cape Nature in a statement.
Go to video
South Africa's prison service challenges court's decision to send ex-president back to jail
01:55
S.A: Parole for anti-apartheid hero killer causes outrage
11:00
The Tanzanian who left the streets for world cup glory (Inspire Africa)
01:50
Ramaphosa urges more climate funding in UK address
01:38
South Africa's government workers march across major cities for higher pay
01:10
South Africa's Ramaphosa leads in two-horse race for ANC presidency