In a tragic incident on a reptile farm in Cambodia, a 72-year-old man was killed by approximately 40 crocodiles after accidentally falling into their enclosure. The man, who was a member of the family that owned the farm, was attempting to move a crocodile out of a cage where it had laid eggs when the reptile grabbed the stick he was using and pulled him into the enclosure.
Once inside the enclosure, the group of crocodiles attacked the man, tearing his body apart and leaving the concrete enclosure drenched in blood. The police chief of Siem Reap commune, Mey Savry, explained that the initial crocodile’s attack on the stick led to the man falling into the enclosure, where the other crocodiles joined in the assault until he died. The man’s body showed multiple bite marks, and one of his arms was bitten off and consumed by the crocodiles.
This unfortunate incident occurred in the same village where, in 2019, a two-year-old girl was killed and consumed by crocodiles when she accidentally wandered into her family’s reptile farm. The presence of several crocodile farms around Siem Reap, the city known as the gateway to the renowned Angkor Wat ruins, is not uncommon. These farms rear crocodiles for various purposes, including their eggs, skins, and meat, as well as for the trade of their offspring.
Crocodile farming is a prevalent industry in some regions due to the commercial value of crocodile products. However, incidents like these serve as stark reminders of the inherent risks associated with working closely with these powerful and dangerous creatures. The tragic loss of life in this recent incident highlights the need for strict safety protocols and precautions when handling such animals.
Authorities and farm owners must ensure proper safety measures are in place to prevent similar accidents from occurring in the future. Educating workers and visitors about the risks involved and implementing secure enclosures are essential steps to mitigate such tragic incidents.
While reptile farms contribute to the local economy and provide employment opportunities, the safety and well-being of both workers and visitors should remain a top priority. These incidents also underscore the importance of public awareness regarding the potential dangers associated with interacting with wild animals and the need for caution in such settings.
A devastating incident occurred on a reptile farm in Cambodia, resulting in the death of a 72-year-old man after he fell into a crocodile enclosure. The attack by approximately 40 crocodiles led to his body being torn apart, leaving the enclosure covered in blood. This incident serves as a reminder of the risks involved in working closely with dangerous animals and highlights the need for stringent safety measures in such environments. Farm owners and authorities must prioritize safety protocols to prevent similar accidents in the future. Public awareness about the potential dangers associated with interacting with wild animals is also essential.