BEAUFORT: Weston residents are facing growing threats from stray dogs, monkeys and crocodiles, according to Urban Development Committee Chairman Amin Abas.
The stray dog population has surged in recent months, endangering pedestrians, particularly students and villagers. “These dogs gather in packs, creating a serious hazard for pedestrians, especially children and residents,” Amin said.
Residents fear the animals may attack or even carry rabies. Despite a successful eradication campaign nearly a decade ago, the strays have returned, breeding rapidly and overrunning sidewalks.
Amin urged the District Council to intervene, capture the dogs and hand them over to the Veterinary Department to control their numbers.
Meanwhile, monkeys have become another nuisance, frequently invading homes in Kg Hulu.
Resident, Sulaiman Panjang said the animals climb onto roofs, damage property and boldly steal food, even snatching rice from pots and eggs from kitchens. While frustrated residents would like to take drastic action, Sulaiman noted that monkeys are a protected species, making killing them illegal.
Instead, he proposed setting up better traps but questioned whether the Wildlife Department would relocate the captured animals.
The most alarming threat, however, comes from large crocodiles spotted near Kg Hulu’s riverbanks. Sulaiman admitted keeping a spear ready for self-defence but said the reptiles often vanish before any action can be taken.
With these ongoing dangers, residents are calling for swift measures to restore safety in their community.
