BALIK PULAU: A dramatic bid to capture a crocodile off Batu Ferringhi ended successfully last evening when the authorities managed to trap and haul the reptile to shore after several tense 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 20 officers and personnel were deployed, supported by the police, Fire and Rescue Department, Wildlife and National Parks Department and fishermen.
Big catch: The captured crocodile waiting to be relocated from the beach. — Photo courtesy of APM
In their first attempt, the team and fishermen used boats and nets to corner the crocodile and drag it towards the shore. But the powerful reptile broke free and slipped back into the open sea.
The chase resumed, and at 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.
“This is the first time we have had such an incident on the island. Crocodile sightings are more common on the mainland,” Muhammad Aizat said, adding that the animal could have swum out from nearby rivers before straying into the sea.
He confirmed the crocodile is a copper-coloured species, measuring about 3.6m in length.
The authorities also monitored the area to ensure no other reptiles were 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 and to report any sightings by dialling 999 or the Penang APM operations centre at 04-226 3876.
