CROCODILE encounters can be alarming, especially when they occur in the residential areas of towns and cities.
It was claimed recently that residents of such an area in Sandakan faced such a scare when a three-metre-long saltwater crocodile was found in a monsoon drain.
Is it true that such a reptile was captured safely in this Sabah suburb?
VERDICT
TRUE
A swift response from the Malaysian Civil Defence Force (APM) led to the successful capture of a three-metre-long saltwater crocodile in a residential area in Taman Nuri Batu 7, Sandakan.
The Sandakan District Operations Control Centre received an emergency call via MERS 999 from the state operations control centre on Feb 11, alerting them to the presence of the crocodile in a large monsoon drain behind a resident’s home.
Sandakan APM officer Captain Sulaiman Salama said a team of seven personnel and one officer was immediately deployed to the scene, arriving in two emergency vehicles.
Upon arrival, they assessed the situation and found the massive reptile partially submerged in the drain.
"Utilising their expertise in wildlife handling, the team successfully subdued the crocodile using a blanket to cover its eyes and three ropes to secure it."
"The operation was carried out efficiently, ensuring the safety of both the personnel and the surrounding community," he said.
Following the capture, the 180kg crocodile was handed over to the Wildlife Department for further action.
Authorities have yet to determine whether the reptile wandered into the area due to habitat loss or other environmental factors.
No injuries were reported during the operation.
Meanwhile, the Sandakan APM urges residents to remain vigilant and report any sightings of crocodiles or other dangerous wildlife, or any emergencies, to the authorities.
