LAHAD DATU: The Wildlife Department (JHL) had to take action to shoot dead two crocodiles on Tuesday (Oct 22) in Kampung Tabanak due to concerns about threatening the safety of the villagers in the village, said its officer Hairulnizam Hasnan@Magiol.
He said the action was also to reduce the risk of residents being attacked by crocodiles besides finding that the crocodile population in Lahad Datu was increasing.
"We monitored the crocodile in Kampung Tabanak on Monday and identified two copper crocodiles, one crocodile 13 feet (3.96 metres) long, and another 5.56 feet (1.69 metres).
"The next day, at 8.15pm, we fired two shots at the crocodile and died, then we disposed of it by burying it," he said when contacted by Bernama on Thursday (Oct 24).
Hairulnizam advised the residents of Lahad Datu to be vigilant when in the sea and nearby areas and always obey the warning signs displayed at certain locations.
He also asked for the cooperation of all parties to channel information or lodge complaints regarding the presence of crocodiles that threaten safety by calling 089-863736, 089-863296 or 089-863735. - Bernama
