If It Wasn't Caught, These 2 Protected Turtles Would No Longer Be Able To Enjoy The Wild

JAKARTA - Personnel from the Directorate of Water and Air Police (Ditpolairud) of the NTT Regional Police released back two turtles suspected of being Lekang turtles and protected by law, which were arrested by a resident in East Flores.

"The release of the turtles was carried out after local police officers arrested a man who was trying to sell the two turtles to residents," said Head of Public Relations of the NTT Police, Kombes Pol Rishian Krisna B, to reporters in Kupang, Friday, November 12, as reported by Antara.

Krisna said that the release of the two protected turtles was the NTT Police's seriousness to protect marine animals protected by law.

In addition, the release is also part of a campaign or outreach to the public to protect protected marine mammals, such as turtles, dolphins, whales and several other marine mammals.

"We want the public to be aware that catching marine mammals, such as turtles, dolphins and whales violates the law and can be punished," he added.

Previously, personnel from the Ditpolairud Polda NTT secured the turtle at the East Flores Patrol Unit Marnit and the perpetrator has now been secured and deposited at the Flotim Police Rutan for further investigation and legal proceedings in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

"For the development of the perpetrators, they are currently being held at the East Flores Detention Center for further action," he added.

The event was attended by the Head of the East Flores Police, AKBP I Gusti Putu Suka Arsa, the Head of the East Timor Police, and the personnel of the Ditpolairud Polda NTT.

In addition, also attended by Head of Section for Water Conservation, Management of Coastal and Small Islands, Branch Office of KP Lembata, Flotim and Sikka Regencies, Head of Business Licensing and Supervision of Fisheries Resources of the Flotim Fishery Service and staff of BBKSDA NTT Maumere branch.

In the future, said the former TTS Police Chief, the investigation process will continue. He appealed to the public not to catch turtles or other protected animals, because there is a criminal threat