Turtle Smuggling Cases on the Rise in Bali

Incidents of turtle smuggling are increasing in Bali, with recent attempts to bring the reptiles onto the island through Jembrana, near Gilimanuk Port. This marks the second such case reported in the province, following an earlier smuggling attempt through Buleleng.

Police are currently searching for one of the suspects involved—a 45-year-old resident of Gilimanuk, identified by the initials I.A.P.

Authorities discovered a total of six turtles. Three were being transported on a motorcycle by the suspect, two were found along the shore, and sadly, one was already butchered and found inside the suspect’s home. Fortunately, the remaining turtles were still alive.

After receiving care and rehabilitation at the Kurma Asih Turtle Conservation Center in Perancak Village, four turtles were declared healthy and released back into the ocean. One remains under observation.

A group of local fishermen from Jembrana received recognition for their role in helping to locate the turtles and assist in their safe return to the sea. Their cooperation with the police played a key role in the rescue operation.

Turtle meat is considered a delicacy and continues to be sold illegally in certain underground establishments that operate in secrecy and serve only select customers. This hidden nature of the trade makes it difficult to completely eliminate.

So far, law enforcement has primarily arrested couriers and suppliers, while the masterminds and buyers behind the trade have remained out of reach. Authorities are aware of some of the buyers, but due to the secretive nature of the operations, gathering sufficient evidence has proven challenging. Most of the turtles sold in Bali are trafficked from the island of Java, and growing demand on Bali is the main driver behind the surge in smuggling.

Ratna Hendratmoko, Head of Bali’s Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA), stated, “We regularly conduct inspections, but have yet to find turtle meat. We are working closely with the police to monitor suspicious venues.”

“Is it really necessary to eat them? Turtles are a protected species. We urge all Balinese and visitors to the island to reject dishes made from endangered animals,” he added.

Sources: antara, radarbuleleng