BALIK PULAU: A tense pursuit to catch a crocodile off Batu Ferringhi concluded successfully on Tuesday evening (Sept 23), when rescuers managed to haul the reptile ashore after several stressful hours.
The 3.6m-long saltwater crocodile was first spotted near the beach behind a hotel in Teluk Bahang at about 3.30pm. The Penang Civil Defence Force (APM) immediately dispatched a team after being alerted by members of the public.
APM district officer Capt (PA) Muhammad Aizat Abdul Ghani said some 20 officers and personnel were deployed, supported by the police, Fire and Rescue Department, the Wildlife Department and local fishermen.
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In their first attempt, rescuers and fishermen used boats and nets to corner the crocodile and drag it towards the shore. But the powerful reptile broke free when the net tore, slipping back into the open sea.
The chase resumed, and at around 6pm, the team made another attempt. This time, they managed to trap the crocodile and bring it safely ashore, ending hours of suspense for beachgoers and residents in the area.
“This is the first time we have had such an incident on the island. Crocodile sightings are more common on the mainland,” said Muhammad Aizat, adding that the animal could have swum out from nearby rivers before straying into the sea.
He confirmed the crocodile was a copper-coloured species, measuring about 3.6m in length. It has since been secured, with authorities monitoring the area to ensure no other reptiles are nearby.
APM said its Baywatch coastal rescue team will continue patrols along the beach and surrounding waters. The public has been urged to exercise caution when swimming in the area and to immediately report any sightings by dialling 999 or calling the Penang APM operations centre at 04-226 3876.
