Grenada’s Ministry of Blue Economy and Marine Affairs (BEMA) is investigating a recent illegal killing of a critically endangered leatherback sea turtle, an incident that took place on May 13 at a beach adjacent to the Solamente Guesthouse in Lance Aux Épines, St George. The ministry has issued a firm condemnation of the act, emphasizing that the harvesting of leatherback turtles has long been outlawed under Grenadian fisheries regulation.
The targeted species, the leatherback sea turtle, is classified as vulnerable globally, with distinct protections in place through Grenadian law. BEMA has reiterated the terms of long-standing regulatory framework: SRO 9 of 1987, as amended by SRO 24 of 1996 and SRO 2 of 2001, Regulation 17. These rules institute a total ban on all interactions with leatherback turtles of any size at any time, including fishing, capturing, trading, holding possession of the animals or disturbing their nesting sites. The regulations also prohibit any tampering, capture, trade or possession of turtle eggs, as well as the harvesting of undersized turtles of any species and all turtle fishing outside of open seasons, and interference with any turtle nests during closed periods.
Beyond the permanent ban on leatherback turtle hunting, BEMA has reminded the public of other active seasonal protections for marine species across Grenada. From April 1 to August 31 annually, all harvest of turtles and sea urchins is prohibited. A similar closed season for lobster harvesting runs from May 1 to August 31, while Levera Beach in St Patrick parish is entirely closed to all leisure activities and fishing from April through August to protect critical nesting habitats.
In the wake of this latest illegal killing, BEMA is calling on the public to assist with the ongoing investigation. Any individual with information related to the incident, including details about the perpetrators or anyone in possession of the turtle’s shell or meat, is urged to contact the ministry directly at (473) 440-3814 or (473) 438-5050, or reach out to their local police station.
To strengthen protections for vulnerable marine species during the annual nesting season, BEMA announced that it will expand routine beach patrols in partnership with the Royal Grenada Police Force (RGPF). However, ministry officials stressed that collaborative action is required to protect Grenada’s unique marine ecosystems. Conservation of these resources is critical not only for preserving biodiversity, but also for safeguarding local livelihoods, upholding environmental responsibility, and ensuring these natural assets are preserved for future generations, the ministry added.