A large crocodile has been spotted in a household pond in Hatiya upazila of Noakhali district, causing panic and curiosity among local residents.
The crocodile was first seen on Wednesday afternoon in the pond of Masud Sharif’s residence in Ward 6 of Hatiya municipality. After the sighting, locals gathered around the pond, many taking photos and videos. Though the Forest Department visited the scene, they were unable to rescue the animal.
Residents reported that the crocodile’s origin remains unknown. Its sudden appearance in a residential pond has caused widespread concern. In response, local youths kept watch around the pond throughout the night, and children and elderly residents were advised to stay away from the area.
Masud Sharif, the owner of the pond, said, “Three days ago, a neighbor saw a crocodile near her kitchen. They tried to chase it away with sticks, but its large size frightened them. On Wednesday afternoon, my wife saw the crocodile in our pond and informed me. I contacted the fire service and forest officials. They came but said it was not their responsibility to rescue the animal.”
He added that although many initially dismissed it as a rumor, several people later confirmed the sighting. The crocodile was seen surfacing with its head and back above the water multiple times.
Local resident Abdul Halim said, “At first, I thought it was a hoax, but when I saw it with my own eyes in the evening, I was shocked. It really is a big crocodile. We are scared, especially for the safety of our children.”
Ariful Islam, Beat Officer of the Nalchira Range in Hatiya Coastal Forest Division, said, “We went to the location in the afternoon, but visibility was poor by evening. We plan to return and take necessary action to rescue the crocodile.”
Hatiya Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Md Alauddin stated, “I have heard about the incident. Some say it’s a crocodile, while others say it resembles one. The relevant department has been informed, and locals are advised to stay alert but not panic.”