High-tech sonar joins hunt for elusive Vaal River crocodile

The search for a three-metre crocodile on the loose in the Vaal River has taken a high-tech turn, with an underwater mapping specialist saying the reptile may already have been captured in sonar data.

The crocodile was first spotted in the Old Willow area earlier this month and has repeatedly managed to evade efforts to catch it.

Specialist crocodile handlers and the SAPS Water Wing are involved in the search, with baited traps, CCTV cameras and remote alerts being used in an effort to safely capture and relocate the animal.

Now, John Easton, owner of Fish Tek HD Fishing Charts, believes his team’s sophisticated sonar technology could provide another clue.

Easton has been surveying the Vaal River using high-definition side-scan sonar and autonomous mapping craft, technology normally used to map underwater terrain for fishermen.

He told HOT 1027 News he believes there is a strong possibility the crocodile is somewhere in data already collected by his team.

“I’m about 80% sure that when I get home and actually process the data from my autonomous survey craft, I’m going to spot the croc sitting on the bottom,” he said.

The alleged crocodile/ Image: Vaal River Rats SA Facebook Group

Easton says crocodiles are notoriously difficult to locate because they can slip beneath the surface when they hear boats or people approaching.

His team is currently mapping sections of the Vaal ahead of a major fishing tournament next month and the World Fishing Games, which are due to come to South Africa next year.

But Easton says the equipment could immediately be deployed if anyone reports a credible crocodile sighting.

“I can put all three to work and scan that whole area very quickly,” he said.

Residents have meanwhile been warned not to swim, water-ski or enter the river while the crocodile remains at large.

Anyone who spots the reptile should keep a safe distance and alert the authorities.