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KWS successfully captures 13-foot long crocodile in Makueni

The reptile that caused panic among residents was safely released into the tranquil Galana River

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by CYNDY ALUOCH

Realtime17 June 2024 - 15:58
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In Summary


  • KWS informed the public that they remain dedicated to community safety and wildlife conservation.
  • "To report any wildlife incidents, please call our 24-hour toll-free line at 0800 597 000 or WhatsApp 0726 610 509 for immediate intervention," KWS said.
Captured crocodile.

Residents of Kamanyuni in Makueni County can now breathe a sigh of relief after Kenya Wildlife Services successfully captured a crocodile putting residents in panic in the area.

Through Facebook on Monday, the authority said they captured the 13-foot crocodile near the Athi River.

"KWS, together with its conservation partners skillfully captured a 13-foot crocodile that had been a danger to the community near the Athi River and safely released it into the tranquil Galana River in KWS Tsavo East National Park," they wrote.

KWS informed the public that they remain dedicated to community safety and wildlife conservation.

They further noted that for any such incidents, one should not hesitate to reach them.

"To report any wildlife incidents, please call our 24-hour toll-free line at 0800 597 000 or WhatsApp 0726 610 509 for immediate intervention," KWS said.

The incident comes days after the authority rescued a baby crocodile on June 6.

The baby crocodile was rescued from a puddle of muddy waters at a construction site in Ruiru following a tipoff.

The Service said the reptile was washed away from its habitat following the recent heavy rains that pounded parts of the country.

"After the torrential rains, something unexpected happened; a juvenile crocodile was washed away from its abode into an unfamiliar territory! Tiny and vulnerable, it found itself in an unfinished construction site in Ruiru, Kiambu county," KWS said in a statement.

The Service said the KWS Vet and capture team swung into action after a community member named Samuel Kamau made a distress call.

"Their mission was clear; to ensure the safety of people and the displaced crocodile. The team safely captured and transported the baby croc to the KWS veterinary centre for examination after which it will be released back to a protected area, far from the bustle of human activity," KWS said.

"Let us all appreciate Samuel for his quick action and commitment to safeguard the baby croc."

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