KOTA KINABALU: The divers responsible for mishandling a turtle while posing for photos at an island have been identified, according to Datuk Seri Christina Liew.
The state Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister, when contacted, said the matter is being handled mainly by Sabah Parks.
Sources indicate the suspects are five staff members of a local company. They have been questioned, but it is unclear if action has been taken.
Sabah Wildlife Department director Mohd Soffian Abu Bakar confirmed the identification of the individuals in the viral video and said an investigation is ongoing. He declined to elaborate further.
When contacted Sabah Parks director Dr Maklarin Lakim declined to comment.
In the 30-second video uploaded by the Tropical Research and Conservation Centre (TRACC) earlier this week, several divers were seen surrounding the turtle, gripping its shell and limbs as it struggled to break free.
Despite the turtle’s distress, the divers continued to hold it down and pose for the camera.
