Mbabane – The Royal Eswatini Police Service has cautioned members of the public to exercise extreme care around rivers, canals, dams and other water bodies as the rainy season continues across the country.
The warning follows a crocodile attack reported to police on January 10, 2026, at about 8pm. A 30 year old man from Lubulini was mauled while fishing at the Lubulini Nsoko canal. He was later taken to hospital, where he is receiving medical treatment.
Police say heavy rains often force crocodiles out of their natural habitats, causing them to surface more frequently and move into new areas, sometimes close to homesteads and farming communities. Rising water levels also increase the risk of drowning, especially in flood affected areas.
The Royal Eswatini Police Service has advised the public to avoid swimming, bathing or fetching water from rivers, canals or flood waters during and immediately after heavy rains. People are urged to keep a safe distance from riverbanks, dam shores and other water bodies, and to avoid entering muddy water where visibility is poor.
Parents and guardians have been warned to keep children away from water bodies during rainy weather, as they are more vulnerable to attacks. Police further urged residents to report any sightings of crocodiles or unusual activity near water to local authorities without delay.
For emergencies, the public has been advised to contact the police on 999, 9999 or 112.
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