BEAUFORT: Residents of Kampung Selagon can breathe a sigh of relief after a 10-foot male crocodile was shot dead by the Sabah Wildlife Department (SWD) on Thursday.
Kampung Selagon Village Head Minah Diso said the predatory reptile was successfully shot at around 9am after SWD officers monitored the area for more than a month.
“The villagers are deeply grateful and would like to extend their sincere thanks to SWD for their swift action.
“After all, residents frequently encountered the crocodile on the road at night. Anyone walking without a torch could easily have fallen victim to it,” she told Daily Express when contacted on Friday.
Minah also shared that a local resident had previously recorded the reptile crossing the road while driving.
However, she cautioned villagers against becoming complacent, as the threat remains.
“This was just one crocodile, and it is believed to be a juvenile. The mother and other crocodiles in the river have yet to be caught, though the exact number is unknown,” she said.
She advised parents to closely monitor their children and prohibit them from swimming in the river or carrying out activities near tributaries, such as fishing.
“We must not let the joy of fishing turn into tragedy if a crocodile strikes. Vigilance is vital.
“I also advise that children walking at night, especially those heading to the surau or religious classes, be accompanied by their parents, as young children are less aware of the surrounding dangers,” she added.
