'Idiots of the century' photographed playing in baited crocodile trap in Australia

A group of men have been branded "idiots of the century" after they were photographed inside a baited crocodile trap in northeast Australia.

The Department of Environment and Heritage Protection (EHP) has reportedly launched an investigation into the "stupid and reckless interference" of the traps at the Port Douglas marina in Queensland. 

Traps were set up in the area after a 4.3m crocodile was believed to have killed 79-year-old dementia sufferer Anne Cameron two weeks ago.

"These traps are specifically designed to attract crocodiles and they are deployed in places where a problem crocodile is known to be present," a department spokesperson said in a statement to ABC News.

"It is extremely dangerous to interfere with a crocodile trap, regardless of whether or not there is a crocodile within.

"It is not an exaggeration to say that interfering with crocodile traps can be potentially life-threatening for the person concerned."

The men, who have been widely condemned after the photos spread on social media, could face a $15,000 fine for their behaviour. 

Julia Leu, the local mayor, said she was "absolutely gobsmacked".

“This is incredibly stupid and dangerous behaviour. I’m wondering if these fellows are vying for the idiots of the year award or the idiots of the century award,” she told ABC radio.

Steven Miles, Queensland’s environment minister, said: "I've seen some pretty ridiculous things in my time as Environment Minister, particularly when it comes to crocodiles, but this one takes the cake.

"You've got grown men swimming in a crocodile trap, exactly where we put the bait for the crocodiles.

"The reason the trap is there is because we suspect there are crocodiles in the area.

"The trap is dangerous in and of itself, and of course if the crocodile were to appear that would be even more dangerous."

He also urged anyone with information on the matter to contact the department.