Awla (seated right) being briefed on the SAR operation update. – Ukas photo
KUCHING (Feb 18): More decisive and aggressive measures are needed to curb the crocodile population threatening residents along Sungai Batang Sadong, said Simunjan assemblyman Awla Dris.
He said there has been a recent spike in crocodile-related incidents in the area, raising alarm among communities who depend on the river for their livelihoods.
“Relevant agencies are urged to carry out more aggressive action as there have been too many cases involving the Batang Sadong area lately.
“Stronger measures are necessary as most residents here rely on river resources as a source of income,” he said following yesterday’s crocodile attack.
According to a Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas) report, Awla visited the search and rescue (SAR) operations control centre near the Batang Sadong Bridge to obtain the latest updates.
The visit was aimed at providing moral support to rescue personnel and ensuring that operational needs were sufficient and well coordinated.
During the visit, Awla received briefings from agencies involved in the integrated operation, including the Royal Malaysia Police, the Malaysia Fire and Rescue Department (Asajaya), the Malaysia Civil Defence Force and the Sarawak Forestry Corporation.
In the incident at about 11am on Tuesday, a 29-year-old man identified as Mohd Faizal Abdillah from Kampung Rangawan was reportedly attacked by a crocodile in the area.
The SAR operation is also being assisted by the Samarahan Crocodile Hunter group and local villagers who are helping to search for the victim near the scene.
Awla also met and consoled the victim’s family, offering words of encouragement and handing over contributions as a sign of concern and support throughout the ongoing operation.
He advised the public to remain vigilant when carrying out activities in river areas or other high-risk locations, and to comply with all safety instructions issued by authorities to prevent similar incidents.
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