Green turtles released in Kuta after rescued from smugglers

Seven large green turtles were released on Kuta Beach, Tuesday. 

The turtles had been rescued from smugglers by Bali Water Police. 

Bali’s seen an increase in turtle poaching due to high consumer demand, as turtle meat gets purchased by traders for the traditional Balinese dish, lawar, as well as for satay, according to Bali Water Police Chief Commissioner Sukandar. 

Through the program ‘Free Bali’s Turtle Trade’ (LIBAS), Bali Water Police say they have foiled three turtle smuggling attempts in the past two months. In total, 11 turtles were secured from illegal traders, but for now, just seven were released in Kuta, while the other five remain in rehabilitative care in the turtle sanctuary in Serangan. 

Green turtles are protected both on the national and international levels, so illegally trading the animals is no small offense, says Sukandar. 

“Therefore, we are committed to protecting and preserving sea turtles through law enforcement and optimizing our LIBAS program,” Merdeka quoted Sukandar as saying.