Indonesian fisherman fights off crocodile
AFP June 07, 201311:52PM
An Indonesian fisherman has survived after fighting off a crocodile that attacked him. File photo. Source: Gold Coast Bulletin
AN Indonesian fisherman fought off an attack by a huge crocodile that dragged him out of his boat on Borneo island but needed 80 stitches to patch up his mutilated arm, an official said Friday.
Fandi, who goes by one name, was refuelling his small wooden boat in the Sebangau river, Central Kalimantan province, when the reptile leapt up and dragged him into the water, said local government official Herman.
"He fought with the crocodile, punching it in the eyes several times and kicking it in the head, and forced the animal to release his arm," said Herman, who also goes one name.
The 41-year-old was treated at a nearby hospital following the attack on Sunday and needed 80 stitches on his arm, added Herman.
He added that it was the third crocodile attack in the area since January.
The huge Indonesian archipelago is home to a vast array of exotic wildlife, including several species of crocodile, and attacks on humans are not uncommon.
Last month, a crocodile devoured a fisherman on the eastern island of Timor, but left his head floating in the water where it was discovered by his distraught family.
