INANAM: Reports of crocodile sightings in Sungai Inanam Laut near Kg Darau Kingfisher and at a jetty in Menumbok have caused concern among local residents.
In Inanam, residents said crocodiles were frequently seen resting along the riverbank, raising safety fears for fishermen, children and the local community.
A resident, Rizman Edris, said crocodiles estimated to be around 10 to 15 feet long had been spotted in the area, with smaller ones also seen. He advised the public to avoid unnecessary activities near the river, including recreational fishing, and urged fishermen to take extra precautions.
He said he had alerted Kota Kinabalu City Hall (DBKK) and the Wildlife Department, which subsequently carried out monitoring operations by boat and set traps along known crocodile hotspots. Authorities also warned that multiple crocodiles may still be present in the area.
In a separate incident in Menumbok, a crocodile was seen climbing onto a floating jetty on Friday, startling a resident identified as Ahmad from Kg Tepi Laut Menumbok.
The reptile, estimated at 10 to 15 feet long, was seen with its mouth open as it moved onto the fishermen’s platform.
Ahmad said the jetty was fortunately unoccupied at the time. Residents also reported seeing several crocodiles swimming in pairs in the area.
Another resident, Rohana Radin, said crocodile sightings in Kg Tepi Laut Menumbok have become more frequent and urged the Wildlife Department to take immediate action, saying they pose a serious threat to fishermen and the community.