39 sea turtles rescued in Tawi-Tawi
ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines – Police and Marines rescued 39 sea turtles, locally known as “pawikan,” from certain death in Tawi-Tawi.
The green sea turtles were turned over to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources for tagging before their release into the sea, said Senior Superintendent Rodelio Jocson, Tawi-Tawi police director.
The sea turtles were believed being prepared for drying or stuffing.
Jocson said the sea turtles were recovered in Barangay Batu Puti, Sitangkai town late Wednesday based on information from an arrested suspect, Utong Gumbahali.
Leading the rescue team were Senior Inspector Salbayani and Marine 2Lt. Freddie Ceballos, he added.
Jocson said Gumbahali, 37, who hails from Barangay Lamion, Bongao town, was arrested Wednesday when government forces on seaborne patrol seized 66 dried sea turtles.
Seaborne operations have been intensified in Tawi-Tawi following reports that poaching and illegal trade of sea turtles have surged again, he added.
Jocson said Navy and Marine patrols have been intensified around Taganak Island or Turtle Island, the sanctuary of the green sea turtle.
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