Three orangutans captured and relocated after invading orchard in Kinabatangan

KINABATANGAN: Three male orangutans were safely relocated to a new home after the villagers of Kampung Sri Ganda found the great apes in their midst eating fruits in the orchards on Aug 16.

Sabah Wildlife Department (SWD) public relations officer Siti Nur'Ain Ampuan Acheh said a team of rangers were deployed to evaluate the situation after the department was contacted by the villagers.

"A translocation operation was initiated on Tuesday (Aug 21).

"The operation involved SWD rangers and veterinary officer Dr Nabila Sarkawi. They managed to capture three male orangutans aged seven, 15 and 25 respectively.

"Medical examination on all of the orangutans found them all healthy and fit," she added.

The orangutans were released into the Kulamba Wildlife Reserve on Saturday (Aug 25).