Crocodile makes a splash, Tunku Abdul Rahman Park steps up safety

KOTA KINABALU - In response to a crocodile sighting in Taman Tunku Abdul Rahman (TTAR) waters on Oct 5, safety and monitoring measures have been significantly enhanced, according to Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin. The Sabah Parks and the Sabah Wildlife Department have increased patrols in the area, with all tourism operators offering water activities such as scuba diving, snorkelling, and sea walking required to inspect their activity zones before permitting visitors into the water.

Group swimming and snorkelling are now the only permitted activities. Warning signs have been placed in the affected area, and lifeguards continue to remind visitors to adhere to safety precautions.

Jafry also declared that authorities are conducting a special operation to track down the crocodile. Nets have been placed at high-risk areas and are being closely monitored to prevent marine life, especially turtles, from becoming trapped. The operation aims to facilitate the crocodile's relocation should it be found. In addition to TTAR, precautionary measures have been heightened at other areas within the park.

Jafry urged visitors to remain vigilant, follow safety instructions, and report any crocodile sightings immediately.