BETONG – Four members of the Malaysian Civil Defence Force (APM) Betong district captured an estimated eight-foot batik python after it was found inside a cat cage at the PKB Betong Quarters on Monday night.
The Betong District Operations Control Centre (PKOD) received an emergency call from a member of the public at 9.14 pm on 31 August, prompting the immediate deployment of an APM team to the quarters.
The call was made by Mr Chase Miqhael, who reported the discovery of the snake at the residential quarters. Four APM personnel were subsequently mobilised to assess the situation and carry out the capture operation.
The team reached the location at 9.24 pm, about 10 minutes after the call was received. Upon arrival, the personnel confirmed that a batik python was inside a cat cage, as reported by the complainant.
APM members proceeded cautiously and used specialised equipment and trapping techniques to secure the snake. The operation was carried out in a controlled manner to reduce the risk of injury to personnel and people in the surrounding area.
The python was successfully captured and was estimated to measure approximately eight feet in length. The operation concluded at 9.36pm without incident, after which the personnel returned to the PKOD Betong.
The operation was led by SJN (PA) Michael Awan Anak Aing, with three other APM personnel assisting at the scene.
They were PBT (PA) Muhd Mizan Bin Abd Malik, PBT (PA) Anddy Harrison Anak Wahid and PBT (PA) Fellixson Emmenual Izri Anak Kasim.
The incident highlights the potential risks posed by encounters with snakes in residential areas. While batik pythons are not venomous, they are large constrictor snakes and can pose a danger if approached or handled without appropriate equipment and experience.
APM Betong reminded members of the public not to attempt to capture or approach snakes themselves, particularly when the species or situation is unclear.
Residents who encounter snakes or other potentially dangerous wildlife are advised to keep a safe distance and contact the relevant authorities or rescue agencies for assistance.
The response at the PKB Betong Quarters also demonstrates the role of district-level emergency teams in dealing with reports involving potentially hazardous animals.
The APM personnel were able to reach the location shortly after receiving the call and complete the capture within a short period.
The public is encouraged to provide authorities with accurate information about the location and circumstances when reporting such incidents.
This can help responding personnel assess the situation and determine the appropriate equipment and approach before arriving at the scene.
In this case, the snake was found confined inside a cat cage, allowing APM personnel to carry out the capture using specialised methods rather than requiring members of the public to intervene.
APM Betong reiterated that safety should remain the priority whenever snakes or other potentially dangerous animals are discovered.
Prompt reporting allows trained personnel to manage the situation while reducing unnecessary risks to residents and bystanders.
