In a river focused operation, the Colombian Navy, in coordination with the National Police, managed to recover more than 300 turtles (Trachemys Callirostris) or hicoteas type, in the department of Bolívar.
This result occurred in a River Control Checkpoint carried out by Troops of the Marine Infantry Battalion No.17, attached to the Marine Infantry Brigade No.1, on the Magdalena river, in the municipality of Magangué, where it was possible to recover 392 turtles known as hicoteas, which were transported illegally in a rudimentary boat hidden inside 14 bags.
The motor ship, which was immobilized at the place, was manned by three individuals, who were captured and must face charges for the crime of illicit use of renewable natural resources.
The rescued hicoteas were handed over to officials of the Regional Autonomous Corporation of the South of Bolívar, CSB, who assessed the conditions of the animals which later returned to their natural habitat.
The boat and the individuals were put into custody of the authority.
Source: Press - Colombian Navy