SELANGAU – The Civil Defence Force (APM) in Selangau successfully captured a snake at a local store after receiving a public alert on Monday, 2 March 2026.
The Selangau District Operations Control Centre was contacted by members of the public who spotted a snake beneath a goods shelf at the Selangau Supersave premises. Four APM personnel were immediately dispatched to the location.
Following an inspection, the team identified the reptile as a Black Cobra, measuring approximately 1.2 feet in length and weighing around 150 grams. Recognising the potential danger posed to staff and customers, officers acted swiftly to secure the area.
Using specialised equipment, including snake tweezers and snares, the team managed to capture the cobra without incident. The operation was completed safely, and the premises were declared secure shortly afterwards.
APM Selangau confirmed that the situation was under control and posed no further risk to the public. The captured snake was removed from the store, ensuring that business activities could continue without disruption.
Snake encounters in commercial and residential areas are not uncommon in Sarawak, particularly during periods of hot weather or when reptiles seek shelter in shaded spaces. Black Cobras, though relatively small in size, are venomous and can pose serious risks if not handled properly.
Civil Defence teams across the state are trained to respond to such wildlife incidents, ensuring that both people and animals are managed safely. Their role is vital in preventing accidents and maintaining public confidence in emergency services.
APM Selangau has reminded residents that its hotline is available 24 hours a day for emergencies. The number to call is 084-891285. Officials emphasised that immediate reporting of unusual or dangerous sightings allows teams to act quickly and reduce risks.
This latest case adds to a series of operations carried out by APM in Selangau, ranging from medical emergencies to environmental hazards. Their readiness to respond highlights the importance of community cooperation in maintaining safety across the district.
Local residents expressed relief that the cobra was captured before it could cause harm. The swift intervention by APM ensured that the store remained safe for workers and customers alike.
Authorities continue to encourage vigilance and prompt communication with emergency services whenever potential threats are identified, reinforcing collective safety in the community.
