SARIKEI – Members of the Sarikei District Civil Defence Force (APM) acted swiftly to capture a monitor lizard that had wandered into a coffee shop in Sarikei town on 24 February 2026.
The Sarikei District Operations Control Centre (PKOD) received an emergency call at 5.00 pm from members of the public reporting the reptile’s presence at Wen Wen Coffee Shop. The incident caused concern among customers and shop owners.
An APM team arrived at the location at 5.22 pm and discovered the monitor lizard hiding beneath a table. Using specialised equipment, including tongs and a grapple, the officers carried out the capture operation.
The reptile was secured safely without incident, and the operation concluded at 5.28 pm. The team returned to the Sarikei PKOD at 5.39 pm after ensuring the premises were safe and the situation fully under control.
No injuries were reported, and normal operations at the coffee shop resumed shortly after. The quick response demonstrated the readiness of APM Sarikei in handling unexpected wildlife encounters in urban areas.
Authorities reminded the public to immediately contact emergency services if they encounter wild animals, stressing that professional intervention is essential to avoid risks to both people and the animals involved.
The incident highlights the importance of community vigilance and the role of local defence forces in maintaining public safety. Monitor lizards, while common in Sarawak, can cause alarm when they appear in populated areas, making swift action crucial to prevent panic and ensure safety.
