The nine-foot-long crocodile spotted in the reef of Kandinma Resort in Dhaalu atoll has been released.

The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) revealed that the crocodile was released on Thursday night into the waters outside of Maldives to reduce its chances of returning.

Officers stationed in Kudahuvadhoo island of Dhaalu atoll reported the sighting to MNDF at around 04:08pm on January 23.

Upon receiving the report, the MNDF Coast Guard Third Squadron officials reached the area in a harbor craft and captured the crocodile.

The crocodile was brought into their custody.

There have been instances in the past where crocodiles have occasionally been spotted, even though they are not native to the scatter of islands comprising the Maldives.