THREE MEN HELD IN PERLIS OVER ILLEGAL TURTLE POSSESSION

KANGAR, Feb 6 (Bernama) -- Police arrested three men in their 40s for allegedly possessing various turtle species without authorisation, believed to be intended for sale on the black market, in separate raids conducted here and in Padang Besar last Wednesday (Feb 4).

Perlis police chief Datuk Muhammad Abdul Halim said the suspects were detained in Taman Perlis here, Jalan Kaki Bukit and an orchard area in Padang Besar during an integrated operation carried out at 12.30 pm.

The operation involved the Wildlife Crime Bureau (WCB)/Bukit Aman Special Investigation Intelligence (PSK), the Narcotics Criminal Investigation Department (NCID) of the Perlis police contingent headquarters and the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (PERHILITAN).

He said authorities seized 45 live turtles of various species that require valid licences or permits under the Wildlife Conservation Act 2010 (Act 716), but the suspects failed to produce the necessary documents.

“Also seized were 60 grammes of drugs believed to be syabu and cannabis, five weaver bird nests protected under PERHILITAN regulations, eggs believed to be turtle eggs, tusks suspected to be from wildlife, and equipment believed to have been used in the illegal activities,” he told Bernama when contacted today.

Muhammad said the total value of the seizures was estimated at RM287,395, and the case is being investigated under the Wildlife Conservation Act 2010 and the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952.

-- BERNAMA