Indonesia faces a growing crisis as the country grapples with an alarming increase in crocodile attacks on humans. Over the past decade, these attacks have surged, placing Indonesia at the top of the list for crocodile-related incidents worldwide. With over 1,000 attacks resulting in 486 deaths from 2013 to 2023, the situation on the island of Bangka is particularly dire. The island is plagued by illegal tin mining activities, which are believed to be exacerbating the problem by disturbing the natural habitat of saltwater crocodiles.
The saltwater crocodile, classified as a species of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, is nonetheless a formidable predator. These reptiles, known to grow up to seven meters in length and weigh nearly 1,000 kilograms, are prevalent in countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, and Australia. Indonesia harbors a significant population of these crocodiles, with their numbers in Bangka believed to be stable, if not increasing.
“More than 60 people have died since 2016 (in Bangka), but it has increased significantly in the past six years,” – Langka
The increase in attacks is attributed to habitat destruction caused by illegal mining operations. These activities not only destroy the crocodiles' natural environment but also create stress due to constant noise and disruption. The Alobi Foundation, which has been monitoring these incidents since 2016, highlights a significant rise in conflicts between humans and crocodiles.
“Compared to 2016 (when Alobi Foundation started collecting data), it is very significant.” – Langka
“The conflicts (between humans and crocodiles) increase as the habitat of the crocodiles becomes more destroyed. This is a time bomb,” – Langka
Despite these challenges, crocodiles remain protected by law. Authorities stress that they should not be caught, hunted, or killed, even amidst rising tensions.
“Crocodiles are protected by law and should not be caught, hunted or killed, despite the high level of conflict in Bangka.” – Langka
Bangka, home to about 1.1 million people, relies heavily on tin mining as its primary economic activity. However, illegal mining has been rampant for over a decade. This illegal industry has involved major global brands such as Apple and Samsung, which have reportedly sourced tin from Bangka.
The impact of these mining operations extends beyond environmental degradation. The constant noise from mining activities stresses the crocodiles, leading them to migrate or act aggressively. Conservationists and local authorities face numerous challenges when attempting rescue missions for these animals.
“They are predatory, so we really need to be careful,” – Endi
“Every time we want to catch a crocodile – a rescue mission, we call it – there are many obstacles … we have limited staff. And we have limited facilities,” – Endi
Efforts to address this crisis emphasize the need for sustainable development and alternative livelihoods for local communities. By reducing dependence on illegal mining, both people and wildlife can coexist peacefully.
“If (people) are prosperous, they would not destroy the environment, and the crocodiles can also live peacefully without disturbing people,” – Dedi
“If there are many illegal mining (sites), the sounds will make them feel stressed, and they will try to fight or migrate.” – Lahmudin
The strain on crocodiles often results in aggressive behavior towards miners or migration downstream. However, finding new habitats is challenging due to existing crocodile populations.
“Sometimes they attack the illegal miners or migrate downstream, but when they find a new place, there are already other crocodiles.” – Lahmudin
“Sometimes, they attack as a form of resistance, not to hunt for food,” – Langka
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