Man injured in croc attack while fishing in a Terengganu lake

A 50-year-old man suffered injuries to his right arm and left hand after he was attacked by a crocodile while casting a fishing net in a lake near Kampung Jelapang, Setiu, in Terengganu on Tuesday evening.

Setiu District Police Chief, Superintendent Mohd Zain Mat Deris, said the incident occurred around 5.30pm as the man, Ahmad Khalid Ya, was fishing with two of his relatives.

“The victim, a local resident, was fishing when he was suddenly attacked by a crocodile. He remained conscious after the attack and was immediately taken to Sultanah Nur Zahirah Hospital in Kuala Terengganu for treatment,” he said in a statement on Wednesday.

According to police, the reptile was later captured on the same day by officers from the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan) with the assistance of nearby villagers.

The incident has raised concerns among residents about safety near the lake, which is occasionally used by locals for fishing. Authorities are expected to increase monitoring in the area to prevent similar encounters. - May 1, 2025