A 62-year-old fisherman was attacked by a crocodile early on May 25 near the Sungai Linggi riverbank close to Port Dickson, Malaysia. The attack occurred between 4 a.m. and 5 a.m. as the man was casting his fishing net by the riverbank, authorities said [1, 2, 3].
Deputy Commissioner Alzafny Ahmad said the victim was standing on the riverbank when the crocodile suddenly lunged at him, dragging him into the water. The fisherman managed to hold onto a rock and break free from the crocodile's jaws before escaping [1, 2, 3].
The man sustained serious injuries during the attack, including a broken left ankle, fractured toe, multiple lacerations on his legs, and wounds to his thigh. He was transported to a nearby hospital and remains hospitalized awaiting surgery [1, 3].
The Negeri Sembilan Wildlife and National Parks Department (Perhilitan) is investigating the incident. Perhilitan director Faizal Izham Pikri said officials identified at least eight crocodiles living in the area, which forms part of a natural habitat along the Sungai Linggi and Sungai Timun rivers [2].
A 2016 survey recorded more than 50 crocodiles in the rivers around Port Dickson, showing a long-established population [2]. Faizal Izham Pikri told reporters that authorities plan to capture and relocate the crocodile believed responsible for the attack to the Paya Indah Wetlands in Selangor. He added they will not shut down or relocate the entire crocodile population, noting, "Authorities cannot simply shut down the river, as it would affect the livelihoods of local communities. The concept of conservation is for humans and wildlife to co-exist" [2].
Warning signs will be installed at the site to alert the public. Officials advise locals and visitors to avoid solitary activities near crocodile habitats, especially between dusk and dawn [1, 2].
