Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries is investigating the killing of a dolphin by a resident of Muna Regency, Southeast Sulawesi. 

The Makassar Coastal and Marine Resource Management Center (BPSPL) and local authorities are examining the motive and potential use of the dolphin, according to antaranews.com.

“The team is verifying the case and assessing the suspect’s actions,” said Doni Ismanto Darwin, Special Staff to the Minister for Public Relations, on Saturday (8/3/2025).

Field verification confirmed the incident, which took place on 7 March 2025. Initial findings indicate the suspect is unaffiliated with any local fishing group.

The Ministry is coordinating with enforcement agencies to address the case while launching public awareness efforts to prevent recurrence.

Dolphins are protected under UU No. 5/1990, amended by UU No. 32/2024, on conservation. Unauthorized capture or exploitation constitutes a legal violation.

A 59-second video of the incident went viral on WhatsApp, prompting action from authorities.

(mg/inp/pr/nm)