Inp.polri.go.id - Kupang. The National Marine Conservation Area Agency (BKKPN) is currently investigating reports of 50 whales that have been stranded and deceased along the Liliwera coast in Pureman District, Alor Regency, East Nusa Tenggara.

Imam Fauzi, the Head of BKKPN Kupang, confirmed on Friday evening(6/9/2024) that the whales are suspected to be pilot whales (Globicephala macrorhynchus). However, further verification is needed regarding both the number and species of the whales. 

"We are still confirming whether there are indeed 50 whales and identifying their species," he said, as quoted by antaranews.com.

The stranding was reported in the afternoon, but the remote and hazardous location in southern Alor has delayed access. Officials plan to visit the site on Saturday.

Preliminary findings will guide subsequent actions by the Marine and Fisheries Ministry's local units. If dead whales are confirmed, samples will be sent to a laboratory in Bali for analysis to determine the cause of death.

Residents are advised not to interfere with the whales to prevent potential health risks.

(mg/inp/pr/nm)