MARUDI: A four-foot python was captured just metres from a home in a village here this morning, after a resident alerted authorities to its presence in a residential lane.
The incident occurred at Kampung Pemindahan, Lorong 5A, near Warung Wizi, where the reptile was discovered close to a property.
The district Civil Defence Operations Control Centre (PKOD) received the call at 8.44am and deployed a response team within minutes.
A four-member unit, led by Lance Corporal (PA) Kamil Tahir, arrived at the scene at 8.52am.
The caller, identified as Nur Shahira Abdullah, was found unharmed, though shaken by the encounter.
Responders quickly assessed the situation and moved to contain the snake using standard capture equipment, including a clamp and noose.
The operation was carried out in a controlled manner, with the python secured without incident.
Officials said the reptile measured approximately four feet in length. While pythons are non-venomous, they are capable of inflicting harm through constriction, particularly in confined or populated areas.
The operation was completed within minutes, and the team returned to base shortly after 9am.
District Civil Defence Officer Lt. (PA) Mirwan Shah Masri said the response reflected the unit’s readiness and adherence to established procedures.
“The situation was handled efficiently, and public safety was not compromised,” he said.
Wildlife sightings in residential areas are not uncommon in parts of northern Sarawak, where settlements border forested land.
Residents are advised to keep a safe distance and report such incidents to the authorities rather than attempting to intervene.
The python is expected to be released back into a suitable habitat away from human settlements, in line with standard wildlife management practices.
