Firefighters snare 8-foot-long python found inside store

SARIKEI (Dec 31): Firefighters yesterday captured a python measuring about eight feet long (2.44m) inside a store at a premises along Jalan Kwong Ming Minah here.

Sarikei Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) chief Arrahman Chik said they were alerted to the reptile’s discovery at 8.20am and deployed a team to the premises.

“Upon arrival, the three-man team conducted an inspection and confirmed the presence of the reptile inside the store.

“Using specialised snake-catching equipment, they were able to snare the python and completed the operation at 8.56am,” he said when contacted.

Arrahman said the python, weighing about 17kg, will be released back into its natural habitat away from residential and commercial areas.

He advised the public not to panic or attempt to catch wildlife on their own to avoid endangering themselves.

“Instead, contact Bomba as our personnel are trained to safely handle such situations,” he said.