SIBU, May 11 — A Sibu licensed crocodile catching team captured a male crocodile measuring around 13 feet (3.96 metres) in length and weighing 280kg in the waters of Kampung Sebenak, Daro on Saturday.

Team leader Jeferry Siew said the operation followed frequent sightings of crocodiles in the area, raising concern among residents.

He said they had initially planned a two-week operation but within days, two crocodiles were caught in traps.

“One managed to snap the rope and escape. It is believed to have been larger and still remains in the area.

“The other is believed to have taken the bait on the morning of May 9 before villagers noticed it in the evening and alerted us,” he said when contacted.

Siew said the team travelled nearly two hours to the location before taking a boat to the trap site.

The crocodile was found dead after being trapped by the bait before it was tied and hauled onto the boat.

About 10 people, including team members and villagers, worked together to pull the carcass ashore before loading it into a vehicle.

“We brought the carcass to Sibu on Sunday before handing it over to the Sarawak Forestry Corporation for further action,” he said.

Siew said the residents informed him that the crocodile population in Kampung Sebenak is believed to be high and continues to raise concern.

He added his team will continue working with residents to set traps and carry out crocodile-catching operations in the area. — Borneo Post