By Kayode Sanni-Arewa
In a sad incident that has rocked the Muaro Jambi community in Sumatra, a 57-year-old grandmother, Hapsah, was killed by a 16-foot python while working on a rubber plantation. The attack occurred last week as she was tending to her daily tasks.
According to reports, Hapsah was ambushed by the massive snake, which ensnared her in its coils. Despite her desperate struggle, she was ultimately overpowered and lost consciousness due to asphyxiation. Concerned when she did not return home, her husband, M Safri, began searching for her and stumbled upon the horrifying scene, with the python still wrapped tightly around her neck.
Sungai Gelam Police Chief Iptu Usaha Sitepu confirmed that M Safri bravely intervened, pulling on the snake’s tail and striking it until it finally released his wife. Tragically, Hapsah had already succumbed to her injuries by the time help arrived.
The incident has left the local community reeling. In a swift reaction, a mob of villagers rallied together, tracking down the python and killing it in an act of revenge. “It was massive. It was taken to the village to be shown to the community after it was killed,” noted village head Amdi.
Hapsah’s body has been returned to her family, who are now preparing for her funeral. This incident marks the second fatal python attack in Indonesia this summer, following the death of another elderly woman in Palopo City just days earlier. Local authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant in areas known for wildlife encounters.