SANDAKAN: A 2.5-metre-long reticulated python, estimated to weigh 10 kilogrammes, was captured along with 14 eggs by the Civil Defence Force (APM) on Tuesday. The reptile was found in an industrial area at Batu 8, Jalan Lintas Sibuga.
According to APM Sandakan district officer Kapten (PA) Sulaiman Salama, the APM Operations Centre was alerted at 8:10 am after a python was spotted near a pile of zinc sheets. A team was immediately deployed and located the snake hiding inside a soil hole adjacent to the area.
The operation to capture the reptile was carried out safely without any injuries or incidents. APM Sandakan advises the public to remain vigilant and to contact authorities immediately if they encounter any wild or venomous animals in residential or workplace areas.
The python and its eggs were later released back into their natural habitat, far from human settlements.
In a separate incident, police have arrested a local man suspected of involvement in a motorcycle theft case. The arrest was made by the Strike Team of the Tawau Police Station at UTC Bandar.
Tawau OCPD ACP Jasmin Hussin said the arrest occurred around 10:30 am on June 8, following follow-up actions and information received regarding a motorcycle theft in Bandar Sri Indah.
A team from the District Police Strike Team detained the man to assist in investigations. Based on initial questioning, the suspect led police to a house in Taman Gabung, where the stolen motorcycle and a key were recovered.
The suspect is a local man in his 30s with no prior criminal record. He and all confiscated items were taken to the police station for further action. The case is being investigated under Section 379A of the Penal Code. – James Leong
Sandakan APM personnel show the captured python and eggs on Tuesday.
