Kota Kinabalu: More than 20 villagers rallied to capture a 300kg crocodile (buaya) believed to frequently appear in coastal waters near University Malaysia Sabah (UMS), Tuesday.
A resident who referred to it as “buaya besar” said it was nearly 12 feet long crocodile and was caught near the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) area after it was spotted about 100 metres from the shoreline.
Villagers used three boats and fishing nets, but two initial attempts failed.
“The crocodile was tied up by the Civil Defence Force and handed over to the Wildlife Department,” he said. The creature was often spotted in UMS waters, posing a danger to residents, especially those picnicking and swimming in the area.
“Some residents, especially children who frequently swim along the beach, were unaware of the crocodile’s presence because no attacks or fatalities had occurred,” he said.
Following the crocodile’s capture, residents and the public are expected to be more cautious when visiting the beach area.
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He also urged parents to monitor their children and, if possible, prevent them from playing or swimming at the beach, as he understood that more crocodiles may still be roaming the area.
