Seven individuals from Baa atoll Kendhoo have each been fined USD 12,840 (MVR 198,000) for their involvement in the killing of turtles on the uninhabited island of Keyodhoo in the same atoll.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has responded to a Right to Information (RTI) request from Mihaaru News regarding fines imposed for environmental harm. According to the EPA, the seven individuals involved in the killing of turtles on Keyodhoo were fined on June 20. They were given a period of 30 days from that date to pay the fine.
According to the information provided by EPA, each of the seven individuals involved in the turtle killings on Keyodhoo has been fined USD 12,840 (MVR 198,000), resulting in a total amount of USD 89,883 (MVR 1,386,000) to be paid collectively. It was previously stated by the EPA that a group of five men were actively involved in the incident.
The police received information on February 3 regarding a group of individuals involved in the killing of turtles in Keyodhoo. In response, the Police took action by visiting the island and conducting an investigation into the matter. The findings of their investigation were subsequently shared with EPA.
After obtaining the statements from the seven individuals involved, the Police released them. It has been determined that a total of six turtles had been killed by the group.
The EPA, along with officials from the Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve and the Police, conducted a visit to the island to gather information and evidence related to the incident.
Since April 4, 2016, all species of turtles and tortoises have been declared protected under the Environmental Protection and Conservation Act of Maldives. The legislation prohibits the capture and harm turtles and tortoises. Despite the significant fines associated with such activities, there have been occasional cases of capturing and consuming turtles.
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