250 turtles rescued, released in Bhola

BHOLA, Aug 25: The Department of Forest rescued 250 endangered turtles from suspected smugglers during a raid at a market in Char Fasson Upazila of the district on Monday night, an official said.

The turtles were found confined in four bamboo baskets at Char Fasson Bazar following a tip, said Sufal Roy, a range officer with the Bhola Coastal Department of Forest.

The rescued turtles were later released into ponds at the Bhola Sadar Upazila and Char Fasson range offices at about 10 pm.

Sufal Roy said the department had been monitoring reports of turtle hunting and smuggling in the area. No arrests were made because those involved fled after learning about the raid.

Under Bangladesh’s Wildlife Conservation and Security Act 2026, hunting, selling and smuggling turtles are prohibited, Sufal Roy said.

The Department of Forest will continue operations to curb wildlife trafficking and protect endangered species, he said.