Pahang Fisheries Dept condemns turtle abuse at Cherating beach
In the 6.45am incident, the adult turtle, believed to have been searching for a nesting site, was reportedly manhandled by the suspects.
Pahang Fisheries Department director Roslan Abu Hasan expressed deep regret, saying the department viewed the incident seriously.
"We are deeply saddened by the cruel actions of the three individuals. Our officers have conducted investigations at the site and lodged a police report at the Cherating station yesterday (July 28).
"Turtles are protected under the Fisheries Act 1985. This incident highlights a disturbing lack of public awareness regarding the importance of preserving endangered marine species," he said in a statement today.
Roslan said the department is working closely with the police to track down the suspects, who acted irresponsibly towards the marine animal.
He said that under the Fisheries Act 1985, it is illegal to disturb, harass, capture, or destroy a turtle's habitat, and offenders may face a fine of up to RM20,000 upon conviction.
Meanwhile, Roslan said monitoring has been intensified at popular turtle nesting sites, including Pulau Tioman, Kuala Rompin, Pantai Cherating, and Tanjung Batu Nenasi in Pekan, to prevent egg poaching.
"We urge the public to report any suspicious activity along the beaches to help protect these turtles and ensure they can continue to nest safely during the season," he said.
Yesterday, acting Kuantan police chief Superintendent Mohd Adli Mat Daud had said that a 51-year-old man had been arrested in connection with the incident, which has since gone viral on social media.
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