Mirians worry over increasing croc population, says Senadin rep

MIRI: Locals have expressed their worries over the increasing crocodile population and the threat posed to humans living along most rivers here.

Assistant Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Datuk Lee Kim Shin said the relevant authority must look at how best to make these rivers free from crocodile infestation.

“I have received reports from members of public on the sighting of these ferocious reptiles in various riverine areas such as Miri bypass, Lutong and Tudan.

“There was a case when a crocodile emerged from the water and climbed up to the nearby Miri Golf Club,” he said, when commenting on the sudden appearance of a 16foot-long male crocodile at an industrial sector in Limbang town yesterday morning.

Lee, who is Senadin assemblyman, believed that the relevant authority, such as Sarawak Forestry Corporation ( SFC), has done its best to cull crocodiles and install warning signs at croc-infested areas.

“The depletion of food sources in the river could have caused these reptiles to source for food at human habitation areas.

“Of course, the worry is that if the crocodiles continue to breed, it is possible they will start attacking humans.”

He pointed out that such a scenario is distressing for locals who make a living from the river.

He advised those living along the river to always be on alert while carrying out activities such as fishing, and to avoid swimming in rivers where the reptiles have been previously spotted.

Lee added that as a resort city, there is a need to ensure Miri’s rivers are safe for visitors to conduct recreational activities such as fishing and water sports.