A passionate local conservationist is calling on authorities to crack down on the illegal killing of sea turtles, a practice still occurring in some remote parts of Vanuatu.

Alphonse Yemen, founder of the Yemen Turtle Conservation group in Qanlap, East Vanua Lava, is urging the Fisheries Department to take stronger enforcement actions to protect endangered turtle species, particularly the Green Turtle and the Hawksbill Turtle.

“If we look around Torba, a lot of people are killing turtles and eating them. I also see it happening all over social media. My question to the Fisheries Department is: when will you start penalizing people? If you just fine one or two people, it will scare others from doing the same,” Mr Yemen said.

Yemen, who has been leading turtle conservation efforts in the region since 2012, said it’s time to act decisively to prevent further harm to the species, which are protected under both local and international conservation laws.

Legal Framework & Penalties:

According to information from the Fisheries Department, individuals caught illegally killing turtles can face fines of up to VT200,000, while companies involved may be fined up to VT1 million.

With increasing reports of turtle killings, especially in isolated communities, local advocates like Yemen are calling for the Fisheries Department to enforce penalties and raise awareness, helping ensure Vanuatu’s commitment to marine conservation is upheld in every part of the country.