Indonesia: Crocodile Attacks and Kills 53-Year-Old Man Swimming in River

A 53-year-old man died in Indonesia after being attacked by a crocodile while swimming in the Bulete River, South Sulawesi. The incident occurred in front of his family.

The victim, identified as Arifuddin, was swimming with relatives when the crocodile bit his leg and dragged him into the water. Efforts by relatives and emergency teams to save him were unsuccessful.

Local residents reported that they have been swimming and washing clothes in the river for years without ever seeing a crocodile. However, crocodile attacks are common in Indonesia, which is home to 14 species of crocodiles.

Experts say that overfishing and the destruction of coastal habitats are forcing the animals to seek food inland, increasing the chances of attacks on humans. Tin mining also contributes to the problem, as people move closer to crocodile habitats.