The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) seized 36 live sea turtles from a fish raft at Sok Kwu Wan Fish Culture Zone today (September 30).

     Upon receipt of a report of sea turtles found on the fish raft from the Police, the AFCD officers were deployed to the scene for investigation and they seized 35 green sea turtles and a hawksbill turtle.

     All the sea turtles were sent to Ocean Park Hong Kong for observation and detailed veterinary assessment. Follow-up investigation by the AFCD is ongoing.

     An AFCD spokesman said that all wild turtles are protected by the Wild Animals Protection Ordinance. No person shall, except in accordance with a special permit, hunt or wilfully disturb, sell or export, possess or control any protected wild animal. Otherwise they will be liable to a maximum fine of $100,000 and imprisonment for one year.

     Besides, all sea turtle species are listed in Appendix I to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora and regulated under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance.

     The import, export, re-export or possession of specimens of endangered species not in accordance with the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance is an offence. The maximum penalty is a fine of $5 million and imprisonment for two years. The specimens will also be forfeited upon conviction.

     The spokesman reminded the public to comply with the regulations and not to import or export specimens or products of endangered species from dubious sources. To report suspected irregularities, the public can call 1823.

Ends/Friday, September 30, 2016
Issued at HKT 23:12

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