Massacre of the crocodiles

A MOB slaughtered nearly 300 crocodiles at a breeding centre in Indonesia in retaliation for the death of a local man.

The reptiles were killed by machetes, hammers and shovels when dozens of villagers invaded the reserve following the funeral of the 48-year-old victim.

The victim is believed to have entered the reserve, in the Sorong district of West Papua province, to cut grass for his cattle when he met his end.

Basar Manullang, of the local conservation agency, said 292 crocodiles were killed. Police are encouraging mediation between the victim’s family and Mitra Lestari Abadi, the company that operates the sanctuary.

Mr Manullang said two large reptiles and many babies died. Killing crocodiles is illegal in Indonesia and police are investigating.