A routine crocodile feeding demonstration at Adventure Park in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, turned into a devastating tragedy when experienced animal keeper Kupi Rapura was attacked by one of the crocodiles he had cared for. Rapura had reportedly worked with crocodiles for years and had spent about two years caring for the animals at the park. On September 5, he entered an enclosure carrying a chicken as part of a demonstration when the crocodile suddenly grabbed him and pulled him toward the water. Witnesses said Rapura remained conscious during the prolonged rescue attempt, while people outside the enclosure searched desperately for ways to help. One person passed him a pole through the fence, while another eventually entered the enclosure and tried to assist him from the edge of the pool. Emergency services and police were contacted as the situation continued, but rescuers faced enormous difficulty separating him from the animal.

The crocodile was eventually euthanized by police, allowing rescuers to free Rapura and take him to hospital for emergency treatment. Sadly, his injuries proved fatal, and he died early the following morning. Rapura was remembered as a highly experienced keeper and a valued member of the Adventure Park team. Before joining the park, he had worked at Baiyer Zoo and had spent years around wildlife. He was also a father of eight, making the loss especially painful for his family and community. His nephew later described the tragedy as a heartbreaking betrayal involving an animal Rapura had trusted through years of care. The incident has renewed attention on the risks involved in working closely with powerful wild animals, even for experienced professionals. For those who knew Rapura, his death is being remembered not only as a tragic workplace incident but also as a reminder of how unpredictable wildlife can be.