NEPA Investigates Incident Of Slaughtered Hawksbill Turtle

September 22, 2015

The National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) is investigating a breach of the Wild Life Protection Act by a group of men involved in the slaughtering of a Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochleys imbricate) in Alligator Pond, Manchester, recently.

The illegal activity was recorded by a concerned individual and has since gone viral on social media.

So far, NEPA has reviewed the video recordings, collected statements and is now at the point of obtaining the support of the police to further the investigation to be followed by the laying of criminal charges against the individuals involved.

NEPA condemns this illegal action and will vigorously pursue this through the courts. If convicted, those charged will be liable to a fine not exceeding $100,000 or 12 months imprisonment.

The Hawksbill Turtle is a protected animal pursuant to sections 6(1) and 6A of the Wild Life Protection Act, it is a criminal offence to hunt or have any part of the turtle in one's possession.

Sea turtles across the globe are considered to be critically endangered due to the poaching of the nesting females and her eggs being caught in nets or through the loss of nesting sites.

Persons are encouraged to contact NEPA at 754-7540 or Toll Free at 1-888 -991 -5005 or the police at 119 to report any such illegal activity.