SARATOK — A six-foot-long buaya kodok (frog crocodile) was successfully captured by the Malaysian Civil Defence Force (APM) Saratok team after it was found entangled in a snare at a fish pond near an oil palm plantation in Simpang Saratok.
The operation, which took place in the late afternoon, was carried out following an emergency call received at 4.55 pm from a member of the public who spotted the reptile struggling in the pond.
Saratok District APM officer, Lieutenant (PA) Nur Athirah Batu, confirmed the operation in a statement today and said that a four-member rescue team led by PBT (PA) Clerance Ambas Renang was quickly mobilised to the scene.
“Upon arrival, the team collected more information from the complainant. The squad leader then conducted a safety briefing and advised nearby residents to keep a safe distance from the site to prevent any incidents,” she said.
The crocodile had been caught by a baited snare within the pond. According to Nur Athirah, the capture operation lasted about 30 minutes. The team managed to safely subdue and restrain the crocodile without any injuries to personnel or members of the public.
The captured reptile was then transported to the APM Saratok District Operations Control Centre (PKOD) for further assessment and appropriate action.
“The entire operation went smoothly, with all equipment in good working order and no injuries reported,” added Nur Athirah.
She thanked the public for their quick response and continued cooperation in wildlife-related emergencies. She also urged residents to remain alert, especially in rural and plantation areas, and to contact the authorities immediately if they come across dangerous animals.
