Kota Kinabalu: Authorities are working to determine whether a viral video showing divers restraining a sea turtle was filmed in Sabah, as speculation mounts that it may have been recorded near Pulau Manukan.
The 30-second clip, shared by the Tropical Research & Conservation Centre (TRACC) on Monday, depicts several divers gripping the turtle’s shell and limbs while it struggles to break free.
Despite its apparent distress, the divers continue holding it down, seemingly posing for the camera.
Sabah Wildlife Department (SWD) Director Mohd Soffian Abu Bakar confirmed that the department is aware of the footage but emphasised that the location has not been verified.
“There are claims that the surroundings resemble Pulau Manukan, but we need to confirm this before taking further action. Our team is looking into it,” he said.
The incident re-ignited discussions about marine conservation and the treatment of protected species.
Wildlife experts warn that handling turtles in such a manner can cause extreme stress, potentially leading to injury or death.
Sea turtles are fully protected under Appendix I of the Sabah Wildlife Conservation Enactment 1997, which prohibits any form of disturbance or unauthorised handling.
Offenders could face legal repercussions, including fines.
TRACC urged those with knowledge of the incident to come forward to help verify the location and identify the individuals involved.
