Croc nest complaints lead to capture of 14.4-foot croc in Sg Kanowit by SFC swift wildlife action team

The 14.4-foot crocodile captured by SFC's SWAT Unit at Lubuk Kerubung, Sungai Kanowit in Kanowit. Photo credit: SFC SWAT/TVS

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Aug 8: A massive 14.4-foot male crocodile was successfully captured by the Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) Swift Wildlife Action Team (SWAT) Unit at Lubuk Kerubung, Sungai Kanowit in Kanowit yesterday (Aug 7).

According to a TVS news report, SFC Sibu Region SWAT Unit Operations chief, Joshua Nyawai, confirmed the capture of the saltwater crocodile, scientifically known as Crocodylus porosus, on the fifth day of their operation, which commenced on Aug 3.

“This operation was initiated following complaints about the discovery of crocodile nests in the Melipis-Lipus area.

“A team of five SWAT members, equipped with two four-wheel-drive vehicles and an Etamax boat, was dispatched to the field, with the Lipus Multipurpose Hall serving as the Operating Centre (OC),” Joshua was quoted as saying in the news report.

The operation also involved several agencies under the Human-Crocodile Conflict Management Committee.

“The operation area extends from the mouth of Sungai Kanowit to the Geremai-Lipus area and is expected to conclude on Aug 12.

“The operation began last Saturday, and the crocodile was captured after it took one of the eight baited hooks set along the operational area,” Joshua added.

He revealed that villagers had previously reported seeing large crocodiles in Lubuk Kerubung.

“Nearby residents have reported sightings of the reptile chasing boats and even claimed it had attacked and consumed pet dogs near the plantations,” he noted.

The captured crocodile has been buried and disposed of at the Kanowit landfill.

“We will continue the operation for a few more days, with our next target being a female crocodile nesting in the Melipis-Lipus area,” Joshua added. — DayakDaily