A manhunt was underway through the week after researchers zeroed in on the 1.95m bull shark which was apparently recorded roaming the grounds of the University of Wollongong and even visiting one of the dorm rooms.

Fish Thinkers Research said the tag had recently detached off the Illawarra coast and was picked up on a nearby beach.

Its mystery journey came to an end on Friday afternoon when the tracking device was finally located.

Shark Smart, the government body that tracks the creatures in the sea, or on land, revealed the device had been located by a local cafe and bar owner.

The man, referred to only as Zoran, found the tag while picking up rubbish on the beach while walking his dog.

“He knew it was important, so kept it, but wasn’t quite sure what to do with it,” the organisation posted on Instagram.

“And the hero of the day, Dr Robert Gorkin from the SMART Infrastructure facility.

“Robert was scouting around University of Wollongong spreading the word and came across the right person at the right time.”

On Friday morning, the tag had been tracked to the university’s library.

“Someone probably picked it up and either has no idea what it is or has forgotten it is in their bag,” the group said in a social media post.

“(They probably) don’t realise they are now being tracked.

“Time to hand in the tag … There will be some very happy researchers and you will have a good story!”

The University also got involved, with a letter sent to students residing in campus accommodation, asking it be immediately returned to the front office.

Students were also helping smoke out the tagged student, with posts on the uni’s Buy and Sell Facebook page providing updated locations and “narrowing in” on the suspect.

The Department of Primary Industries said the shark had been tracked for 120 days, and urged Wollongong and Shellharbour residents to help locate the tag.

Director of Fisheries Research, Dr Natalie Moltschaniwskyj said the pop-off satellite tag was tagged onto a 1.95m male bull shark in Evans Head on January 22, 2021.

“The tag successfully popped off the shark and washed ashore on Wednesday morning,” she said.

“The person hasn’t done anything wrong, but we are very keen to get the tag back as it contains crucial information about the shark such as where it has been, its swimming depth and feeding behaviour.

“These tags are a great way to get a treasure trove of information without needing to catch the shark again.”

Dr Moltschaniwskyj said the research formed part of the NSW Shark Management Strategy which was designed to keep people safe in the water.

“If you have it, or know someone who has it – we are keen for you to get in touch,” she said.

“The tag only has a week left of battery so we are very keen to get the tag back before we lose track of it.”