Amelie Osborn-Smith, an 18-year-old British woman, was attacked by a large crocodile while swimming in the Zambezi River in Zambia. The incident occurred during a break from a white-water rafting expedition on Tuesday.
Her father, Brent Osborn-Smith, an osteopath based in London, said the group was encouraged by guides to take a quick dip in a stretch of river deemed safe. When returning to the boat, the crocodile bit her leg, leaving her right foot 'hanging loose' and dislocating her hip. The reptile attempted a death roll, but Amelie fought back, and the crew repelled the attack.
First aid was administered on the boat, and a helicopter evacuated her to a hospital in Livingstone. During the flight, a medic texted her father: 'You have one hell of a brave girl there, sir.' She was later transferred to Lusaka for further surgery to save her foot.
Her father said she remains traumatised and heavily sedated, but arrangements are in place for her transfer to a London teaching hospital. He praised the courage and professionalism of all involved in her rescue and treatment.
