A resident living by a crocodile-infested river in Indonesia remains fearful after surviving a harrowing attack by one of the predators. Munirpa, 48, was assaulted by a 13-foot crocodile while disposing of garbage near a creek, with the animal nearly engulfing her whole body in its jaws. Her husband came to her rescue, managing to free her by pulling her away as she fought back with punches to the creature’s eye.
Following a month-long hospitalization and two surgeries, Munirpa returned home, now bearing scars from the encounter that haunt her daily. She expresses overwhelming fear and reluctance to venture outside, even in her own backyard, due to the trauma she endured. She is adamant about safeguarding her children, urging them to avoid areas near the river and refrain from activities like fishing.
Crocodiles are protected by law in Indonesia, prohibiting hunting even after attacks. Consequently, their population has surged in the region, leading to a rise in human-crocodile interactions. Calls have been made to the government to address the escalating issue, particularly following 180 reported attacks in 2024, resulting in 92 fatalities.
The prevalence of attacks has surged since the introduction of artificial waterways in 2013, which inadvertently brought crocodiles closer to human settlements. Another victim, Suardi, recounts being ambushed by a crocodile while retrieving fallen coconuts from the river. Despite the risks, he emphasizes the importance of vigilance in navigating the environment.
In a recent incident, Tarti Kolengsusu, 43, was gathering water spinach by the Air Biak River when a crocodile clamped onto her leg, dragging her underwater as she cried out for help. The local police chief described the frantic scene where the victim’s pleas for assistance echoed from the riverbank.