The crocodile at Sungai Tasa is hauled into the boat during the culling operation. -File Photo
KUCHING: Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) yesterday explained why it chose to release the 16-foot ‘wandering’ crocodile back into the river in Limbang following numerous enquiries on the rationale behind its decision.
“The decision to release the captured crocodile was partially based on the fact that there had been no prior complaints of any menace or threat posed by the presence of crocodiles in the area concerned.”
“Also considered was the fact that a survey carried out in May this year had shown that for the stretch of the Limbang River from the river mouth to Limbang town, the crocodile population density was about one reptile per kilometre, which is nowhere near the level where culling might be deemed necessary,” SFC explained in a press statement.
The statement added that SFC will continue to closely monitor the situation in the area concerned.
It will also install more warning signages where crocodiles are most often seen, including Jetty Tamu Limbang, Medamit, Kampung Lubuk Piasau and Kubong.
On Sept 3, folk in Limbang were left shocked and in awe when the reptile – estimated to weigh a tonne – made an unexpected appearance in front of a tyre shop in the the town’s industrial zone.
Local Fire and Rescue Department personnel managed to capture it before releasing it back into the wild with the help of SFC officers later the same day.
Photos and video footage of the incident went viral on social media.