Warning: Graphic image below

A State Government department has defended its decision to shoot dead a crocodile on a Broome beach.

Pictures of the deceased animal were shared across social media with Parks and Wildlife Kimberley under fire for the heavy handed approach.

“You should be ashamed of yourselves,” Facebook group WA Crocodile Conservation and Protection Society said.

“Guess shooting him is easier than actually trapping him and doing some actual work.”

Authorities had closed the popular Cable Beach on Thursday afternoon after the 3.7m saltwater crocodile was spotted in front of the surf club.

The popular spot remained closed on Friday to swimming and water-based activities as Parks and Wildlife staff and Broome rangers monitored the crocodile’s movements.

Camera Icon There’s anger over a decision to shoot a crocodile in Broome. Credit: WA Crocodile Conservation and Protection Society

But late on Friday the decision was made to shoot the crocodile.

“A 3.7 metre estuarine crocodile has been euthanased at Entrance Point, Broome after several attempts to remove the animal failed,” Parks and Wildlife Service Kimberley regional manager Craig Olejnik said in a statement.

Mr Olejnik said the crocodile was within the Broome Crocodile Risk Mitigation area, which extends from south of Willie Creek to Fall Point, including Cable Beach.

“As Cable Beach is a popular recreation area and estuarine crocodiles pose a significant threat to public safety, our immediate priority was to capture and remove the crocodile,” Mr Olejnik said.

“When this proved unsuccessful, we took the difficult decision to euthanase the animal to ensure the safety of residents and visitors to Broome.”

Members of the WACCPS vented their frustration on Facebook, describing the move as “sad” and “lazy”.

“This is so wrong,” one member posted.

“It’s the middle of the wet season. Who’s there to be attacked?” other said.

“What a sad sight... very disappointing,” another added.

It is not the first time authorities have shot a crocodile near Cable Beach.

In March 2017 the decision was made to kill a 3m saltwater crocodile to ensure public safety.