Ogan Ilir, KOTABARI.COM – Residents of Tanjung Bulan Village, Rambang Kuang District, Ogan Ilir, have successfully captured a crocodile that has been causing distress among the local population for the past two months. The crocodile had been appearing frequently in the local river due to receding water levels.
Local residents, especially those who fish in the Rambang River, have been feeling anxious and concerned for their safety while carrying out activities around the river. This concern prompted Maman Hidayat, a local resident, to take the initiative to capture the crocodile. Together with several other villagers, Maman managed to set up a trap that eventually succeeded in capturing a female crocodile measuring approximately 3 meters.
“We caught it using a trap,” said Maman during an interview in Tanjung Bulan on Saturday (8/5/2023). The determined efforts and teamwork of the villagers yielded results, as the crocodile was safely secured and transported to dry land.
After being successfully captured, the crocodile was temporarily held at the village hall. Maman and his colleagues then sought assistance from the local Community Policing Officer (Bhabinkamtibmas) for further steps. The Muara Kuang Police Sector, responsible for the Rambang Kuang District, reminded the public to remain cautious when engaging in activities around the river.
In related developments, the Muara Kuang Police Sector stated that there have been no reports of crocodile attacks on humans in Tanjung Bulan Village. Muara Kuang Police Chief, Iptu Alimin, explained, “The captured crocodile is currently under the custody of Tanjung Bulan Village Authorities (Pemdes Tanjung Bulan) and will subsequently be handed over to the Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA) for further handling.”
Local residents hope that the actions taken by Maman and his team will help ensure the safety of the community around the river and prevent potential conflicts between humans and wildlife. Authorities are expected to take appropriate steps promptly to safely and effectively handle the captured crocodile.