Sabah Wildlife Dept seizes 300 turtle eggs in Tuaran, arrest man

KOTA KINABALU, June 10 – A joint special operation conducted by the Wildlife Crime Bureau (WCB) and the Sabah Wildlife Department has led to the arrest of a 37-year-old Malaysian man in Kampung Serusup, Tuaran, about 40km from here for alleged possession of what is believed to be protected turtle eggs.

The operation seized approximately 300 eggs believed to be from green turtles, a protected species in Sabah. 

The total estimated value of the confiscated items is RM3,000.

Authorities confirmed that the case is being investigated under the Wildlife Conservation Enactment 1997, which prohibits the possession of fully protected wildlife or their derivatives without valid authorization.

The Sabah Wildlife Department emphasised that it takes any form of illegal possession, trade, or smuggling of wildlife very seriously. 

Enforcement efforts will continue to be intensified to ensure the protection and conservation of endangered species.

Despite ongoing awareness campaigns and behavioral change initiatives, demand for turtle eggs remains persistent, contributing to continued illegal activities such as smuggling and unauthorised sales.

Members of the public are strongly advised not to purchase, possess, or consume turtle eggs, as doing so constitutes an offense under the law. 

The public is also urged to report any information related to the sale or trafficking of turtle eggs to the relevant authorities to support efforts in combating wildlife crime and safeguarding turtle populations in Sabah.