Terengganu: The Terengganu Marine Police Force and the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan) seized 16 birds believed to be the fully protected species of blue-rumped parrot in an operation on a premises on Jalan Pantai Lorong Penunjuk Indah, Rumah Murah, Kijal, near here, yesterday.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Marine Police Force Region 3 Commander ACP Zulafendi Hassan stated that the birds were confiscated following an inspection conducted by Perhilitan enforcement officers and four officers from the Kuala Terengganu Marine Police Force's Marine Intelligence Unit (URM) at 3 pm. He noted that the total value of the confiscated bird species, protected under the Wildlife Conservation Act 2010 (Act 716), was estimated at RM80,000.

Further checks revealed that a 34-year-old man admitted ownership of the wildlife but failed to produce any valid license or special permit from Perhilitan. ACP Zulafendi emphasized that possessing, keeping, or trading wildlife without permission is a serious offence that carries severe penalties.

He urged the public to report any information related to criminal activities by calling 09-5137726 or emailing [email protected].