Sabah has made the decision to begin culling crocodiles in areas with high levels of activity, although no meat or by-products of these reptiles will be sold, according to the state Wildlife Department.
The Wildlife Department director, Augustine Tuuga, said that the process of selling the meat would be difficult and time-consuming, as it would require government approval and the department has limited manpower.
Tuuga stated their focus is on culling the reptiles and not selling the meat during a phone call on Feb 1st.
The culling efforts began in the Papar district on Jan 25th and concluded on the 27th, during which time a total of 32 crocodiles – 19 in Sungai Kawang, 12 in Sungai Kinarut, and one in Sungai Papar – were shot dead.
“This is to reduce the risk of crocodile attacks towards humans, and so we acted on the directive given by the state government,” Tuuga said.
The initiative will continue in phases across Sabah, and all culled crocodiles will be buried and disposed of, without any meat or products being sold or exported due to the lack of export licenses for crocodiles.
Asked about the use of crocodile skin for accessories, Tuuga stated that no factories in Sabah specialize in this business.
The agencies involved in this ongoing operation include the Home Affairs and Research Office, Papar district office, Sabah Wildlife Department, Fire and Rescue Department, Civil Defence, police, and Outward Bound Sabah.
