Indonesia holds the unfortunate record for the highest level of saltwater crocodile conflicts globally, with around 150 attacks and 85 deaths annually. Experts point to illegal tin mining as the primary cause, as destroying natural habitats forces crocodiles to seek food in human-inhabited areas.
From 2013 to 2023, over 1,000 crocodile attacks were reported in Indonesia, resulting in 486 deaths. The Bangka-Belitung islands, located off the southeastern coast of Sumatra, are particularly prone to these incidents due to the high concentration of illegal tin mines.
Wildlife biologist and founder of CrocAttack, Brandon Sideleau, notes that Indonesia tops the list for reported crocodile attacks. He estimates that, including underreported areas like Papua and West Papua, the actual figures might be closer to 200 attacks and 120 deaths annually.
Illegal mining has devastated crocodiles’ natural biodiversity and habitats, leading to a shortage of their natural prey. As a result, crocodiles increasingly target domestic animals and occasionally humans. They often move into old, flooded mines, known as “kulongs,” which attract fish, crabs, livestock, pets, and people.
Tin, a significant component in smartphones and other electronic devices, is primarily sourced from these illegal mines. After Indonesia’s democratization in 1998 and the subsequent right to mine granted to citizens in 2001, illegal mining surged, causing significant environmental degradation and wildlife displacement.
Endi Yusuf, manager at the Alobi Wildlife Rescue Centre in Bangka-Belitung, leads efforts to rescue and rehabilitate wildlife affected by illegal mining. He emphasizes that the conflict affects animals and people, with decreasing natural habitats escalating the human-animal conflicts.
The Alobi Wildlife Rescue Centre faces challenges due to limited space and funding. Currently, they house a few small crocodiles, but rehabilitation in Bangka-Belitung is not viable due to the extensive habitat damage. In the past, the team relocated animals to the neighboring island of Sumatra.
Despite these efforts, the ongoing illegal mining activities continue to pose significant threats to both crocodiles and local communities in Indonesia. Conservation groups remain dedicated to mitigating these conflicts and protecting human and animal lives.
