Negombo-Kalutara turtle deaths

The Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC) is in the process of finalizing a detailed report on the turtle carcasses that washed ashore from Negombo to Kalutara. 

 

 

DWC Director Chandana Sooriyabandara mentioned that the autopsy report is almost complete, awaiting additional reports from institutions like the Government Analyst's Department and the Veterinary Research Institute (VRI) as required by court order. 

 

 

Once all reports are received, the DWC will compile the report for submission to the court and other relevant institutions, including the Marine Environment Protection Authority (MEPA). 

 

 

The turtle carcasses were discovered in various areas, prompting an extensive investigation by the DWC. While there are suspicions of underwater explosions causing the deaths, no official confirmation has been provided by relevant institutions. 

 

 

The DWC was ordered by the Colombo Fort Magistrate to conduct post-mortem examinations and submit a detailed report. 

 

 

A total of 25 turtle carcasses and two live turtles were found along the coast, with some showing fractures and the cause of death attributed to traumatic brain damage. 

 

 

The department is investigating whether prohibited fishing activities involving explosives might have caused the suspected explosions.