Cairo: Saudi Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture has caught a crocodile, which was seen in a video moving in an area in central Saudi Arabia, local media reported.
The predator had been filmed purportedly slithering next to a wall in the eastern part of Buraidah in the central region of Al Qassim.
The crocodile was brought under control by veterinarians from the ministry in collaboration with local security agencies and a citizen.
It was handed over to the governmental Saudi National Centre for Wildlife, the media said.
It was not immediately clear how the crocodile had reached the area and if it was kept by a local.
The environment system in Saudi Arabia bans keeping wild animals. Violations are punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a maximum fine of SR30 million.
Earlier this month, Saudi authorities warned against illegal rearing of predators after a lion mauled its keeper to death in Riyadh.
The illegal purchase of wild animals is believed to have thrived due to social media where they are marketed.
