SIBU: The public have been urged not to stop by the roadside or approach ponds identified as having crocodiles to allow the Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) to carry out operations to capture the reptiles
Sibu Rural District Council (SRDC) chairman Councillor Sempurai Petrus Ngelai said stopping near the location could disrupt SFC operations and expose members of the public to the risk of crocodile attacks and road accidents.
He urged the public not to gather at the site to observe the situation or fish in the affected area, especially after warning signs on the presence of crocodiles were installed by the SFC.
“We hope the SFC will be able to carry out its duty to capture the crocodile without being disturbed by members of the public stopping by the roadside.
“Do not turn the location into a place to stop and watch or fish, as this could endanger yourself and other road users,” he told the media yesterday (Aug 10).
Sempurai said the public should comply with safety instructions and stay away from the pond until further action was taken by the authorities.
He said the “WARNING CROCODILE” sign at the location should be taken seriously and not treated as merely a routine warning to road users.
He also urged the public not to park their vehicles or motorcycles on the road shoulder near the pond, as this could obstruct traffic and endanger other road users.
“When vehicles stop by the roadside, it not only endangers those who get out of the vehicles but also poses a risk to other road users.
“Give the SFC space to carry out its duty and do not disrupt the ongoing operation,” he said.
The SFC, through its Sibu Enforcement and Protection Section (EPS), installed a “CROCODILE BEWARE” sign at the pond along the road leading to Sibu Airport on Aug 6.
The sign was installed as a preventive measure to raise public awareness of the possible presence of crocodiles in the area.
Meanwhile, the public have been advised not to approach or disturb crocodiles if they spot the reptiles and to comply with warning signs installed for their safety.
