Fisheries Department Condemns Actions Against Sea Turtle in Chloraka

The Fisheries and Marine Research Department has condemned the actions allegedly committed by employees of the Chloraka Community Council against a sea turtle. The Director of the Department, Marina Argyrou, described the incident as unprecedented, as it was recorded in a video that circulated on social media. The sea turtle was found in a coastal area of Chloraka and, according to the Fisheries Department, was already dead when a department associate arrived at the scene. However, Ms. Argyrou stressed that the way the turtle was handled by those involved is not justified, regardless of its condition. The Police have taken over the case and have received the animal for a post-mortem examination. Ms. Argyrou stated that the case is under investigation and that all necessary measures will be taken to assign responsibility. The incident has provoked strong reactions from wildlife protection organizations and the general public, who condemn the abuse of sea turtles, which are a protected species.