The Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (Profepa) announced the seizure of 11,175 Olive Ridley sea turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea) eggs that were being illegally transported in the state of Colima.
The discovery took place at a security checkpoint set up by the Secretariat of National Defense in the town of Estapilla; a man was detained there while carrying five cardboard boxes and three sacks containing the eggs, which had originated in Michoacán.
Following the arrest, the alleged offender was handed over to the Federal Public Prosecutor’s Office and the Attorney General’s Office (FGR) to face charges related to crimes against biodiversity.
Subsequently, Profepa, the FGR, and the Defense Secretariat counted the seized items and issued a technical report regarding the environmental impact.
Authorities indicated that a recommendation was made to bury the eggs in an attempt to mitigate the impact, although their viability remains uncertain due to the duration and conditions of their transport.
Furthermore, it was noted that the law prohibits the exploitation, possession, or trade of sea turtles and their by-products in any form.
Source: launion
