People could face fines of nearly VT1 million for handling or eating protected marine mammals that wash ashore, the Department of Fisheries has warned.

The warning follows the discovery of a dead marine mammal identified as a cowfish at Laplas, in Luganville, yesterday. The animal attracted crowds of people who gathered to take photographs, touch it and cut open its body.

VBTC News witnessed members of the public gathering around the dead animal along the coastal area of Laplas.

The animal reportedly measured 2.84 metres in length and was estimated to weigh more than 300 kilograms.

Principal Mariculture Officer at the Department of Fisheries, Lency Dick, is urging the public to keep their distance from marine mammals found washed ashore and immediately report them to Fisheries officers.

Fisheries warns of health risks

Dick said the cause of death of a marine mammal found ashore may not be known, making it dangerous for people to handle or consume the animal.

“When a marine mammal comes into a coastal area, please contact the Department of Fisheries. Our officers can visit the site and record information about the animal. You are not allowed to cut it open or sit on it.”

He warned that handling or eating the animal could put people’s lives at risk.

The Department is advising the public to leave such animals untouched and allow Fisheries officers to assess the situation.

Protected under Fisheries Act

Dick said marine mammals are protected under the Fisheries Act No. 10 of 2014, which prohibits people from harassing or cutting open protected species.

“These species are protected under the law. The Fisheries Act states that animals like these must not be harassed or cut open, because heavy penalties apply.”

He specifically warned the public against touching or approaching marine mammals such as whales, dolphins and dugongs when they wash ashore.

Public urged to report sightings

The Department of Fisheries is urging anyone who finds a marine mammal along the coast to contact its officers immediately.

The public is advised to keep a safe distance, avoid touching or cutting open the animal, and not consume it.

Fisheries officers can then assess the animal and document the circumstances surrounding its death.