Two monster male crocodiles captured after they took baits laid out along Sungai Lemai, Balingian

MUKAH, Oct 15 2026: Two male crocodiles, measuring 13.1 feet and 14.7 feet, were captured during an on-going operation in Sungai Lemai, Balingian, on Oct 13.

Caption: Personnel from various agencies with one of the captured crocodiles

Sarawak forestry Corporation (SFC) said the crocodile reduction population operations, which began on Oct 12 until 25, involved eight personnel from Sibu and Bintulu, working in collaboration with licensed crocodile hunter Sahari Rapaie, with additional support from RELA, the Balingian Volunteer Fire Brigade, and the Balingian District Human-Crocodile Conflict Management Task Force.

The two reptiles were captured on the second day of the operation after they took crocodile baits laid out along Sungai Lemai. Both crocodiles were later taken to the Bederun Festival Site Jetty in Balingian before being relocated.

SFC advised the local residents to avoid approaching areas where crocodile-trapping lines have been laid, and to refrain from disturbing the lines or their floats throughout the duration of the operation.

"The operation will continue until October 25 to allow for the monitoring and management of the crocodile population to be carried out in a controlled manner, in accordance with established standard operating procedures.

"Local residents are advised to remain vigilant when engaging in activities near the river to minimize the risk of untoward incidents," SFC said in statement.

The operation, conducted by the Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC), aims to manage the crocodile population in a controlled manner, with the involvement of relevant agencies to ensure the safety of local residents.

The State Legislative Member for Balingian, Abdul Yakub Arbi, welcomed the operation and emphasized the importance of continuous monitoring to address the risks posed by large crocodiles in areas frequented by the local community.

He suggested that regular monitoring should be extended to other locations around Balingian known to have crocodile activity, saying that high-risk areas should be identified as priority zones and equipped with appropriate warning signs.

"I hope residents will provide full cooperation throughout the operation by not tampering with the equipment installed, and by remaining vigilant when engaging in activities near the river," he said.

He expressed his appreciation to the SFC, the People's Volunteer Corps (RELA), the Balingian Volunteer Fire Brigade, and the Balingian District Human-Crocodile Conflict Management Task Force for their commitment to safeguarding the local community.