A 58-year-old man is recovering after being saved from the jaws of a crocodile by residents of Kampong Chhnang province on Saturday.

Mao Aun was looking after a crocodile farm in Sre Thmey commune in Rolea Ba’ier district, which is reportedly owned by a Phnom Penh resident, when he was viciously attacked. He was picking mangos near a water tank containing the reptiles, said Sre Thmey commune chief Chan Bora, when a crocodile jumped out of the pond and bit his leg.

The animal then dragged him into the pool where he was set upon by more crocodiles. “But fortunately, one boy saw what happened and shouted for help from neighbours,” said Chan Bora.

Armed with sticks, the onlookers fought off the reptiles which released the man. Mao Aun was later taken to hospital with serious bites to his arms and legs.

“The accident happened as [the victim] was being careless. He did not bring along a stick to protect himself,” said the commune chief.

District police chief, Soeun Viseth, said the farm owner would pay for medical treatment and that officers would visit the farm to ensure the animals were kept secure.