PHUKET: A crocodile that caused panic after being spotted swimming close to numerous beaches of this resort island over the past 11 days has been caught, according to media reports.
The seafaring reptile was scooped into a large trawl net off Layan beach in Thalang district at about 4.30am on Sunday by a team of hunters from Surat Thani province.
The crocodile was found to be a female about 2.5 metres in length, but it was not immediately determined whether it is a saltwater crocodile or of mixed species.
The crocodile was scanned but no microchip was found on it, so its origins aren't yet clear. It will be taken to a sea animal research centre for examination.
Rescuers measure the croc after it was captured off Layan beach, Phuket, on Sunday. (Photo by Achadtaya Chuenniran)
The elusive crocodile was first sighted at Yanui beach in tambon Rawai of Muang district on July 18, kicking off a swimming ban and a massive crochunt the following day.
Before it was caught on Sunday morning at Layan beach, the seafaring reptile had apparently been touring the Phuket coast, with sightings reported at Nai Han, Kata Noi, Karon, Trai Trang and BangThao beaches. It took 11 days to capture - anything but a snap.