Crocodiles escape from Batam farm about 30km away from Sentosa

Several crocodiles from a farm in Batam, located some 30km away from Sentosa, reportedly escaped on Jan. 13.

According to CNN Indonesia, the reptiles broke free from Bulan Island after a breeding pond overflowed and part of its wall collapsed after days of heavy rain.

In response to Mothership's queries, the National Parks Board (NParks) confirmed that they are aware of the situation.

They added that they are currently monitoring the situation and have advised the public to report any encounters with crocodiles.

Local fishermen helping to retrieve crocodiles

The crocodiles had reportedly wandered out of the breeding pool managed by PT Perkasa Jagat Karunia (PJK) after heavy rain caused the site to flood.

Head of Batam Regional Conservation Section (SKW II Batam), Tommy Steven, told CNN Indonesia that the crocodiles managed by the company had been marked on their tails with a slight cut.

He added that the company owns at least three crocodile breeding ponds, with up to 200 crocodiles under their care.

Steven highlighted that the crocodiles were not as "ferocious" as wild crocodiles as they were regularly fed.

Local coastal fishermen have stopped fishing activities in the area due to safety concerns and have been assisting to retrieve the crocodiles in a joint effort with Batam authorities.

It is not clear how many crocodiles broke free from the farm.

However, around 23 crocodiles have been secured as at Jan. 18, confirmed the Head of the Community Monitoring Group (POKMASWAS) for Fishermen on Bulan Island, Mohammad Safet.

He urged PJK to take accountability for the incident and also compensate the fishermen involved in the search operation.

NParks monitoring the situation

NParks group director of wildlife management How Choon Beng said on Jan. 18 that it is aware of the incident at Bulan Island, and is monitoring the situation.

The public is advised to stay calm and back away should they encounter a crocodile in public.

They should not approach, provoke, or feed the animal.

They should also heed warning signs and advisory notices that have been posted at areas where crocodiles have been sighted.

Those who come across crocodiles may also contact NParks at 1800-476-1600 to report such incidents.

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