Public cautioned against crocodiles in Samariang River

KUCHING: The State Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba Sarawak) has issued a reminder to the public to be mindful of warning signage at crocodile infested rivers.

BOMBA Sarawak director Datuk Khirudin Drahman said authorities such as the Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) have noted a surge in crocodile activitiy along the Samariang River which is known for its abundance of fresh prawns and fishes.

The fresh prawns and fishes are a vital source of food for crocodiles and their hatchlings.

“The river and surrounding swamp are crucial breeding grounds for crocodiles. While they are known to be shy creatures, it cannot be denied that they are elusive and territorial, especially during the rainy season from early November to March, when they would engage in mating rituals.

“Female crocodiles, in particular, become more aggressive when protecting their nesting areas and this has prompted regarding public  safety,” he told the New Sarawak Tribune.

Khirudin stressed the importance of respecting the natural habitat of these creatures, adding that proper warning signage has been strategically placed to remind the public of the potential dangers posed by crocodiles.

“While local residents are familiar with the area and its risks, the authorities have issued reminders and warnings for the need to exercise caution and avoid careless attitude to prevent incidents,” he said.

In view of the SFC deploying its Swift Wildlife Action Team (SWAT) to mitigate the threat from crocodiles in Samariang River areas, Khirudin said the department is mobilising its manpower to assist in the operation codenamed  ‘Operasi Nangkap Boyak’.

“Bomba Sarawak is often engaged to assist in search and rescue (SAR) operations. We are assisting in ‘Operasi Nangkap Boyak’ by being on the lookout while the SFC’s SWAT team is doing their job in laying baits and traps,” he said.

For the record, Bomba Sarawak has assisted in SAR operations regarding three crocodile attack cases  this year.