SPAOH – A sense of unease swept through Sekolah Kebangsaan Spaoh on Tuesday morning when a black cobra was discovered beneath the stairs of the school’s dormitory.
The incident was reported at 8.55 am by Mr Jamal, who noticed the reptile entering a hole at the base of the stairway. His call to the Spaoh District Operations Control Centre of the Malaysian Civil Defence Force (APM) prompted an immediate response.
Three members of the Charlie Squad, equipped with specialised snake-catching tools, were dispatched to the school. Upon arrival, the team conducted a careful inspection of the area to locate the reptile. Their search confirmed the presence of a black cobra, estimated to be around two feet in length.
Using the pincer technique, the squad managed to capture the snake safely without causing harm to either the animal or the responders. The operation concluded at 9.40 am, with the cobra removed from the premises for further handling.
The school expressed appreciation to the APM Spaoh team for their swift intervention, which prevented any potential danger to students and staff. The presence of venomous snakes in school environments poses serious risks, and timely action is crucial to ensuring safety.
Wildlife encounters in Sarawak, particularly involving venomous snakes, are not uncommon. The state’s tropical climate and dense vegetation provide natural habitats for species such as cobras, pythons, and vipers. Schools, residential areas, and farms occasionally report sightings, prompting emergency responses from civil defence and wildlife authorities.
The APM has repeatedly reminded the public to avoid attempting to handle snakes themselves. Instead, residents are urged to contact emergency services immediately. Trained personnel are equipped with protective gear and techniques to manage such situations safely.
In Spaoh, the incident has reinforced the importance of vigilance in areas where children live and study. School administrators have been advised to conduct regular inspections of dormitories and surrounding grounds to reduce the risk of similar encounters.
The Malaysian Civil Defence Force continues to highlight its readiness to respond to diverse emergencies, ranging from medical cases and natural disasters to wildlife control. Their motto of “Ready, Fast, With Integrity” reflects their commitment to safeguarding communities across Sarawak.
Residents are reminded that emergency assistance can be reached via the 999 hotline or directly through the Spaoh APM office at 083-473006.
