A VIDEO showing a large reptile swimming near vessels in Kemaman waters went viral on social media, causing alarm amongst ship workers and local residents.
The footage captured the unexpected appearance of the creature in the open sea.
Was a crocodile sighted in the seas around Kemaman?
Verdict:
TRUE
The appearance of a crocodile spotted swimming around the port area in Kemaman, Terengganu on Saturday (Nov 15) shocked ship workers and local residents.
The reptile's presence was recorded by several individuals believed to be ship workers before the footage went viral on social media.
A resident, Mohd Alwi Zuraidi, 40, said the crocodile's presence raised concerns amongst ship workers, particularly divers conducting maintenance work at the port, as well as fishermen and anglers in the Teluk Kalong area.
"This area is indeed an open sea area, so we have never heard of crocodiles here before," he said.
"When a crocodile appears like this, all workers and fishermen become more cautious," he added.
Meanwhile, Terengganu Wildlife and National Parks Department (Perhilitan) director Loo Kean Seong said his department received a report regarding the crocodile sighting on Sunday (Nov 16) morning.
"The Kemaman Perhilitan team has gone to the location to conduct monitoring and further investigation," he said.
Several videos circulated on social media showing the crocodile swimming near a ship, triggering public concern.
The sighting is unusual for the area, as crocodiles are not typically found in open sea environments.
Marine wildlife experts note that whilst saltwater crocodiles can swim in the ocean, their presence in port areas poses potential risks to those working in the water.
Workers have been advised to remain vigilant and take extra precautions when conducting underwater operations.
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