KOTA KINABALU:
Authorities are searching for witnesses after a disturbing video emerged, showing a group of divers forcibly restraining a sea turtle in Semporna, Sabah.
The footage, which has sparked outrage among marine conservationists and the public, shows the turtle struggling to break free as the divers hold it down.
In the video, several divers can be seen surrounding the turtle, gripping its shell and limbs.
Despite its struggles, the divers continue to hold it down to pose for the camera.
Experts warn that handling wild turtles this way can cause extreme stress and even injury or death.
The Tropical Research & Conservation Centre (TRACC) in Semporna, which shared the video, is urging the public to come forward with any information about the divers or the exact location of the incident.
It was reported that TRACC's director, Robin said the Sabah Wildlife Department and Sabah Parks have been notified about the incident.