An enormous 23-foot pregnant python was caught and killed by farmers in a jungle in Indonesia, fearing it would prey on humans in the nearby village.

The giant reptile was discovered by a local as it was resting in the undergrowth near Latompe Village in West Muna Regency, Southeast Sulawesi on September 21. Because of the beast's sheer size, the farmer had to return to the community to call for backup.

Village head Laode Sugira said: 'The farmer then called eight of his friends to hunt down the giant snake. They were worried that the snake would prey on humans because the snakes nested around the plantation area.'

Using their machetes, the men struck the python's head multiple times, but it reportedly retaliated and tried to lunge at them. It took several more whacks to the head before keeling over, lifeless.

Footage shows the farmers hauling the colossal serpent on their shoulders out of the jungle.

Laode said: 'It took nine people to defeat it. It's really large wild snake seven metres long and weighing 130 kilograms.'

He added that the creature was found about seven kilometres away from a residential area.

Following the incident, the village leader urged locals to stay in groups when working in the fields as he was worried about other snakes that may still be lurking in the plantation.

He said: 'In our village, we have found pythons several times, although they are not this big. Residents also often report the loss of livestock, cows and chickens.

'After surgery, residents also found many eggs in the snake's stomach. It was brought to the city where its meat will be sold.'