A crocodile sighted in a pond near a village in central India’s Madhya Pradesh has left villagers living in fear for over a month.

The incident took place at Lahatwas village in the Khimlasa area of Khurai tehsil in Sagar district on October 25.

Visuals showed villagers gathered anxiously around the pond, their expressions a mix of fear and curiosity. The murky water concealed a crocodile, its rough skin barely visible. Tension hung in the air as whispers spread, with some keeping a safe distance while others peered closer, trying to catch a glimpse.

According to reports,the crocodile, estimated to be around 8-10 feet long, reportedly wandered into the area from nearby rivers and streams during the rainy season. Currently residing in the pond, the crocodile’s presence has made villagers reluctant to venture near the fields.

Abhishek Chandel, the village representative, expressed concern, noting that the pond is close to a residential area where children often play. He warned that a serious incident could occur if the crocodile isn’t removed soon. Local authorities, including the Forest Department, police, and the panchayat, were informed, and a forest team was sent to capture the animal. However, initial attempts were unsuccessful, as the crocodile managed to evade capture.

Ranger Chandrabhooshan Singh Thakur confirmed that another team will be dispatched to locate and capture the crocodile to ensure the safety of the residents.