PARIT BUNTAR: A reported sighting of a crocodile measuring about six metres long at the Parit Tok Hin water gate in Kuala Kurau here has left the Ban Pecah bathing area deserted, with the location about 1km from where the reptile was spotted.
The crocodile, which was seen swimming in the sea less than 100m from the beach, was captured on video by visitors and anglers at the water gate, raising concerns over the safety of people carrying out activities near the coast.
According to Harian Metro, a check at the popular bathing area found it deserted, although anglers from outside the area were still seen near the site where the crocodile was spotted, possibly unaware of the presence of the reptile.
Residents have since expressed hope for authorities to step up monitoring and take appropriate action to prevent any untoward incidents, particularly involving the public engaging in water activities.
The sighting is believed to be the second such incident in the area, after a crocodile was previously spotted moving through waters from Tanjung Piandang to Kuala Gula in 2019.
Fishermen have also reported previous incidents of their nets becoming entangled with crocodiles along the Kerian waters.
Kerian District Council (MDK) president Helmi Yusof @ Jusoh said the council would refer the matter to the Wildlife and National Parks Department for its views and further action.
"This morning, we put up a banner at the location to advise visitors against swimming in the area," he said.
He said the sandy beach near the kiosk had previously been fitted with a sign advising the public against bathing there, while MDK was also considering putting up a dedicated warning sign about the presence of crocodiles at Ban Pecah.
"The area is also equipped with closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras and a public address system, allowing the authorities to monitor activities and inform the public at the beach of the current situation," he said.
