PSDKP Monitors Estuarine Crocodile Movements in Tulungagung Waters

Tulungagung, East Java - The Marine and Fisheries Resources Monitoring Directorate (PSDKP) is continuously monitoring the appearance of a crocodile along the southern coast of Tulungagung Regency, East Java, which has been spotted moving between locations from Sidem Beach to Popoh.

PSDKP Tulungagung Coordinator Samsul Rijal stated on Wednesday that officers, together with the Indonesian Navy and the Water and Air Police, are coordinating to monitor the wild animal’s presence.

‘The crocodile appeared briefly, then disappeared and moved to different places. Officers routinely check the location to monitor its whereabouts,’ he said.

He explained that officers have not been able to evacuate the animal because it spends most of its time in the water. This condition complicates the capture process, as the crocodile is capable of swimming and diving and can be aggressive.

‘Handling it at sea requires special involvement and experience, including synergy with local fishermen. However, given the crocodile’s aggressive nature and its ability to swim and dive, evacuation remains difficult,’ he said.

Samsul noted that the evacuation process would be more feasible if the crocodile were on land. Therefore, officers are currently prioritising monitoring to determine the animal’s pattern of appearance and movement.

The Tulungagung PSDKP has also not been able to confirm the species or origin of the crocodile, as they have not conducted a direct identification. Officers have so far only observed from the mainland when the animal surfaces.

He explained that there is a possibility the animal is an estuarine crocodile whose habitat is in the Niyama River estuary area. However, other possibilities remain open, following previous information about a crocodile that escaped from captivity in the coastal area of Malang.

‘We cannot conduct a direct identification yet because the crocodile is in the water more often than on land. For now, we are carrying out monitoring and coordination,’ he said.

Officers have urged the public, especially residents and fishermen in the southern coastal area of Tulungagung, not to approach or attempt to capture the crocodile if it is spotted again, and to immediately report any sightings to the authorities.