34 Batam farm crocodiles recovered, unclear how many escaped in total

A total of 34 crocodiles, believed to have escaped from a farm in Batam, have been re-captured in Indonesia, said a local official.

The reptiles broke free from a farm in Batam on Jan. 13 after heavy rain caused a breeding pond to overflow.

The farm has around 500 crocodiles under their care, with the largest caught so far weighing over 1,000kg — about as large as they get.

However, it is still not known how many crocodiles escaped.

"Very low risk"

The farm is located on Bulan island, about 30km from Sentosa island.

But Tommy Steven, a conservation expert in Indonesia, told CNA that the risk of the escaped crocs swimming to Singapore is "very low".

"Crocodiles are usually able to move for about 15 to 20km but crocodiles in captivity are usually used to being given food by human beings, so their movements are slower," he said.

He also said in a previous interview that they are not as "ferocious" as their wild counterparts as they are regularly fed.

Steven added that the farm's efforts to count its crocodiles have been hampered by challenges in draining the water from the breeding pond.

Previously, the farm management told Indonesian media that only five crocodiles escaped.

Measures taken

An official from the Integrated Taskforce for Disaster Management and Crocodile Evacuation told CNA that based on preliminary assessments, Singapore waters remain safe.

The authorities are taking precautionary steps, such as routine patrols, installing warning signs, and educating the public.

The National Parks Board (NParks) said in an earlier statement that it is aware of the incident 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.

Top image from Indonesia's Taskforce for Disaster Management and Crocodile Evacuation