Bali has taken a major step in wildlife conservation by releasing 24 rescued green turtles back into the ocean. These turtles were saved from a smuggling operation that police intercepted on the Denpasar-Gilimanuk road. Despite five turtles being found dead, the remaining ones were healthy enough to be returned to their habitat in Perancak Village.
Inspector General Daniel Adityajaya, Bali’s Police Chief, highlighted the significance of preserving wildlife. He explained that nature-based attractions are vital for Bali’s tourism industry. Damage to the environment, he said, could harm tourism and the economy. He also stressed the critical role green turtles play in maintaining marine ecosystem balance.
Three suspects involved in the smuggling operation were arrested. SD (55), AU (32), and ML (35) were apprehended in possession of the turtles. All three suspects are from Tuwed Village in Melaya District. Notably, SD is a repeat offender who had been previously charged with illegal logging and wildlife smuggling.
Authorities are now urging the public to help combat wildlife trafficking by reporting suspicious activities. Police Chief Adityajaya also warned about the potential health risks of consuming wild animals.
DNA Analysis Reveals Turtle Origins
DNA testing of the smuggled turtles has provided key insights into their migration patterns and origins. Researchers found that the turtles were likely captured in feeding areas off Java’s eastern coast, with some migrating from Australia.
Dr. Ida Bagus Windia Adnyana from Udayana University’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine led the study. He revealed that the turtles were linked to a feeding ground near Alas Purwo National Park in East Java. This site is a critical feeding habitat for green turtles migrating from nesting grounds in Australia and parts of Indonesia.
The DNA analysis established a strong genetic link between these turtles and populations from Ashmore Reef and the Scot/Browse region in Australia. Ashmore Reef alone contributes 18% to the Indo-Australian green turtle population. This figure is significantly higher compared to other Indonesian nesting sites, such as Pangumbahan in West Java or Kalimantan.
Dr. Windia emphasized the importance of protecting these feeding grounds, which are essential for green turtle survival. He called for immediate action to preserve these vital habitats for turtles and their migration routes. Protecting these areas, he said, is key to sustaining the green turtle population across the Indo-Australian region.