In a heartbreaking incident, a 10-year-old boy named Denis Rodi lost his life after being attacked by a crocodile at Sinakut Beach, Lahad Datu, Sabah. The tragic event took place yesterday, October 13, at approximately 7 a.m.
According to Sinar Harian, Denis had been swimming with five of his friends when a crocodile attacked and dragged him into the sea. His companions, along with family members and nearby villagers, quickly launched a rescue effort, but despite their immediate response, Denis could not be located.
Lahad Datu district police chief, Assistant Commissioner Dzulbaharin Ismail, provided further details, stating that a man later reported the incident to the Desa Kencana police station. After a three-hour search, authorities discovered Denis body about 600 meters from the site of the attack. Tragically, his body had been severely mutilated, with his right arm and head missing.
Wildlife officials, led by Officer Silvester Saimin, responded to the incident and confirmed that two crocodiles had been spotted in the area. Shots were fired in an attempt to deter or capture the animals, but the reptiles managed to submerge into the water and evade capture. Due to the frequent sightings of crocodiles along Sinakut Beach, authorities will continue to monitor the area for any further threats.
The case has been classified as sudden death, and police are urging any witnesses or individuals with additional information to contact Inspector Junis Bulansor at 013-8742128.
This tragic incident serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers posed by wildlife in certain areas, particularly near water bodies known for crocodile activity. Authorities are likely to take additional safety precautions to protect the public, especially in locations where crocodiles are frequently seen.
Denis death has left the local community devastated, and the authorities are expected to further investigate and implement preventive measures to avoid such tragedies in the future.
Source: Sinar Harian & FMT