Human remains discovered inside the intestines of a crocodile in the Komati River are suspected to be those of a missing businessman, police said on Saturday.

The discovery was made in Komatipoort after a week-long search led by a multi-agency team that included the South African Police Service (SAPS) Search and Rescue Unit, NatJoint, SANParks, Emergency Medical Services (EMS), Securecon and the Port Management Committee.

According to police, the man was reported missing after his Ford Ranger was found trapped at a low-lying bridge in the Komati River. Investigators later identified a crocodile in the river that was suspected to have attacked the missing person.

Authorities obtained the necessary permission to euthanise the animal. During examination, human remains were recovered from its intestines.

DNA testing will now be conducted to determine whether the remains belong to the missing businessman.

Acting provincial police commissioner Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi praised the search team for their persistence under dangerous conditions.

“I give honour to the dedicated team that has put their lives in danger to find the missing person. I know it was not easy, but they did not give up, even when they were faced with dangerous situations,” he said.

Police said investigations are ongoing.