The Environmental Management Authority (EMA) has commended the swift action of wildlife enforcement officers following a reported suspected sea turtle poaching incident at Lambeau Beach, Tobago, and reiterated the importance of protecting Trinidad and Tobago’s environmentally sensitive species.
According to a media release issued Wednesday, August 5, the EMA understands that an enforcement operation resulted in the arrest of two individuals following the discovery of a dead sea turtle, turtle meat and eggs believed to have been unlawfully removed from a nesting site. The matter remains under investigation by the relevant authorities.
The EMA extended its commendation to the officers involved for their vigilance, commitment and timely response in addressing the suspected wildlife offences, stating that their actions demonstrate the critical role enforcement personnel play in safeguarding the country’s biodiversity and ensuring environmental laws are upheld.
Sea turtles are protected under Trinidad and Tobago’s environmental legislation and are recognised as Environmentally Sensitive Species under the Environmental Management Act. The EMA noted that the illegal hunting, capture, killing, possession, disturbance or trade of protected wildlife threatens vulnerable populations and undermines conservation efforts.
The EMA is encouraging members of the public to report suspected environmental offences and assist enforcement agencies by providing information that can help protect environmentally sensitive species and habitats.
Violations under the Environmental Management Act (Chap. 35:05) may result in fines of up to $100,000 and two years’ imprisonment. Breaches can be reported to the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS), the EMA Hotline via WhatsApp at 367-8824, by email at complaints@ema.co.tt, or by phone at 226-4EMA (4362), Ext. 5. After-hours environmental emergencies can be reported at 680-9588.