Chinese diver detained for allegedly spearing, eating endangered turtle in world's most biodiverse waters

Makassar immigration officials detained Chinese diver Wei Shang, also known as Wilson Shang, upon his attempt to board a flight to Kuala Lumpur on September 14. The Indonesian authorities learned of Shang's detention through a letter from the Raja Ampat regency government, requesting his exclusion from leaving the country. The incident allegedly transpired between September 8 and 11 in the Fam Islands, where Shang is accused of spearing and consuming an endangered hawksbill turtle.

Raja Ampat's marine biodiversity is unparalleled, boasting over 1,600 reef fish species and more than 550 coral species, per the Raja Ampat Marine Park Authority. Videos and images purportedly capturing the alleged turtle hunt circulated on social media, prompting the regional police to report the case. Commissioned by the Southwest Papua Regional Police, Commissioner Jenny S.A.

Hengkelare revealed that investigators have obtained electronic evidence, including video footage and photographs, allegedly depicting the incident. Shang maintained his innocence, stating, "The person in the video is not me," according to CNA Indonesia. He asserted that he only learned of the turtle upon its return to the homestay, where he allegedly tried to dissuade his companions from hunting it.

Shang was subsequently handed over to the Sorong immigration office on September 16. The case falls under Indonesia's 2024 conservation law, which imposes penalties ranging from three to 15 years in prison and a fine between IDR200 million and IDR5 billion (US$11,300 - 282,000). If convicted, Shang could be deported and added to a blacklist.

AIDA International, the freediving organization that certified Shang as an instructor trainer, suspended his status on September 16 pending their own investigation.