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KUNAK: A male saltwater crocodile measuring 17ft 4in and weighing an estimated 800kg was shot dead by a team from the Wildlife Department (JHL) after it was believed to have been involved in an attack on a shellfish collector at a river near Ladang Sri Kunak.

In the earlier incident on April 19 at about 2pm, the victim was reportedly attacked while collecting shellfish in the river and suffered severe injuries to the leg.

The Wildlife Department was informed of the incident on April 20, after which monitoring operations were initiated.

“Acting on the information, the JHL team set crocodile hooks at the location on April 25 as part of efforts to capture the dangerous reptile,” the department said in a statement on Tuesday.

On Monday, an inspection led to the discovery of the crocodile, which was subsequently captured and shot at the location to ensure the safety of nearby residents.

The department advised the public to remain vigilant and avoid activities in river areas known to be crocodile habitats to prevent any untoward incidents.