Indonesian grandfather killed by crocodile as villagers battle to save him with sticks

A terrifying scene unfolded in Lampung, Indonesia, as an 80-year-old man named Wasim was fatally attacked by a 10-foot crocodile while bathing in the Semaka River near his home in Tanggamus Regency on June 30.

Disturbing footage shows the massive reptile dragging Wasim in its jaws through the river, as shocked villagers watched in horror.

According to reports, Wasim was unable to call for help as the crocodile swiftly pulled him underwater.

His disappearance was first noticed when a villager discovered his clothes on the riverbank.

Alarmed, they alerted others to begin a search—only to spot the crocodile swimming with the elderly man clutched in its mouth.

In a desperate attempt to save him, brave residents waded into the shallow river armed with sticks, frantically striking the crocodile.

Semaka Police Chief AKP Sutarto confirmed that after repeated blows, the animal eventually released Wasim’s body—but sadly, he was already dead.

“The victim was found within an hour, around 1:00 PM. Though released by the crocodile after being struck several times, he had succumbed to his injuries,” the police chief said.

He added that Wasim suffered deep wounds on his back and shoulders.

Wasim’s grieving son-in-law, Samugi, expressed shock at the tragedy, saying, “It was just a normal day. We never imagined it would end like this.”

Authorities have urged locals to exercise greater caution near the river, warning of the region’s high risk of crocodile attacks.

Indonesia currently records the highest number of crocodile attacks globally, with over 1,000 incidents in the past decade—many of which go unreported.

See the clip here.