KINGSTON, Jamaica — The National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) is reporting that an 11-foot crocodile sighted in a Portmore, St Catherine canal on the weekend has been safely relocated.

The agency said it received reports of the crocodile being in the waterway between 3 East and 3 West on Saturday afternoon. It was restrained and removed from the canal with help from the Urban Development Corporation (UDC).

Crocodiles often traverse the gullies and canals within the area, which is historically a natural habitat for the protected animal.

NEPA is urging people who may see crocodiles within their communities not to attempt to capture the animal, but rather to contact the agency at 754-7540 or 1-888-991-5005. Individuals may also call 119 or make a report to the nearest police station.

The public is being reminded that it is an offence under the Wild Life Protection Act (WLPA) to possess, hunt, kill capture or willfully molest the crocodile.

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

During the period April 1, 2016 to March 31, 2017 the Agency with assistance from the UDC successfully relocated 11 crocodiles within St Catherine.