KINGSTON, Jamaica – A team from the Hope Zoo and the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) successfully retrieved a large crocodile from possible harm after it was captured by residents of Seaview Gardens in St Andrew on Sunday.

A video making the rounds on social media showed residents hooking and then pulling the reptile, which they later nicknamed ‘Radam’, from a canal. One man admonished bystanders who were attempting to hit the crocodile with large planks.

A comment from the social media account savecrocsja announced that a team from NEPA and Hope Zoo retrieved the reptile, which measured 10.5 feet.

“The community looked out for the croc along with the JDF until the team arrived and it was a great team effort. The community named him RADAM,” the account added.

It is an offence under the Wild Life Protection Act (WLPA) to possess, hunt, kill, capture or willfully molest the crocodile. NEPA has advised members of the public not to capture or harm the reptile.

Individuals found guilty of the offence may be charged a maximum fine of $100,000 or face one year imprisonment.

Meanwhile, persons can report crocodile sightings by calling 876-754-7540 or toll-free 888-991-5005.

Claude Mills