The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has decided to investigate a case of torture of a stingray in southernmost Addu City.
While a video of the capture and torture of the protected species was circulated on social media, EPA said that it is investigating the matter together with the Maldives Police Service.
“Note that as of 16th June 2014, all species of rays are protected by law”Environmental Protection Agency
The video shows a group removing its tail and barb, and later throwing it back into the ocean. A crowd had gathered to watch this.
RaajjeMV understands that the torture took place in Addu City’s Hithadhoo district.
While stingrays may use their tails to maneuver in the water, its primary purpose is protection.
Rays are protected under the Article 4 of Environmental Protection and Preservation Act, and ‘any act of catching, rearing, trade or smuggling of ray or parts of ray, cruel and abusive practices towards these animals and/or their habitats will be considered an act of violation.’ It is punishable under the Environment Liability regulation.
