NEPA appealing for help to catch crocodile killers

The National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) is aware of a series of videos and photographs depicting the killing of a crocodile on a fishing beach. The Agency has commenced its investigation and coordination with its partner agencies to find the perpetrators of this gruesome act.

Ricardo Miller, Fauna - Coordinator, explained, “we are deeply disturbed by this cruel and unprovoked attack on this protected animal and are appealing to the public to assist in identifying and prosecuting the men seen in this video. “This is a significant set back in the conservation of this endangered species,” he added.

Crocodiles are one of Jamaica’s many endangered animal species and are protected under law. It is an offence under the Wild Life Protection Act (WLPA) to possess, hunt, kill capture or willfully molest the crocodile. Individuals found guilty of the offence may be charged a maximum fine of $100,000 or face one-year imprisonment.

NEPA is urging the public to call the Agency at 876-754-7540 or toll-free 888-991-5005 to provide information on this incident. Individuals may also call 119 or make a report to the nearest police station.