Boosaaso, (Idil News) β At least 140 dolphins were found stranded on the shores of Mareero near Bosaso, in Puntlandβs Bari region, sparking an environmental investigation into the causes of this unusual incident. Government officials and marine experts have reported that some dolphins were alive when they washed ashore, while others were already dead.
The Puntland Ministry of Environment, in collaboration with the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources, has spearheaded rescue efforts. Officials confirmed that 30 dolphins were returned to the sea, while around 60 were found dead.Β Β
Toxic Waste Concerns
Speculation has emerged that toxic waste dumping in Somali waters may be a contributing factor to the tragedy, though officials have yet to confirm this claim.Β Β
Investigation Underway
A joint team of experts from the Puntland Institute of Marine Science, East Africa University, City University, and government ministries has launched a comprehensive investigation. Fluid and tissue samples from the dolphins, as well as water and soil samples from the affected area, have been collected for laboratory analysis.
So far, no other dead marine species have been discovered along the coastline, according to initial findings.Β Β
Puntland Government Response
Senior Puntland officials, including Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources Abdirisak Abdullahi Xagaa, Deputy Minister Mohamoud M. Ali Gabax, and Acting Director General Mohamed Said Black, visited the stranding site to assess the situation and oversee the response efforts.Β Β
The Puntland government is also tackling broader environmental and social issues while maintaining a focus on improving security and combating terrorism in the region.Β Β
The results of the investigation are expected to shed light on the cause of the mass stranding, with findings to be released to the public in the coming weeks.
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