The Evacuation of 7 Animals by BEMP Along with Volunteers, BKSDA, and Maritime Police
DENPASAR, BALI (27 April 2021) – Bali Exotic Marine Park (BEMP) is pleased to announce the successful relocation of seven bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops aduncus) from the now-closed Keramba Dolphin Lodge to our state-of-the-art facilities. This relocation marks a significant step in ensuring the welfare and protection of these dolphins, aligning with our commitment to marine conservation and ethical animal treatment.
On Tuesday, April 27, 2021, representatives from the Directorate General of KSDAE, the Bali Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA), Bareskrim Mabes Polri, and Ditreskrimsus Polda Bali gathered at Dolphin Lodge, Pantai Mertasari, Sanur, Bali. Despite initial resistance from Dolphin Lodge representatives, the relocation proceeded under the government directive to safeguard the dolphins’ welfare, which had been operating without permits and the unlawful exhibition of protected animals.
The relocation operation, conducted meticulously and with utmost care, involved transporting the dolphins approximately 50 meters from the sea pens to motorboats, and then to BEMP’s temporary holding facilities. Over several hours, three of the seven dolphins were successfully relocated. The remaining dolphins were moved later that night, ensuring their safety and well-being throughout the process. The dolphins, identified as Ardan, Riq, Triton, Marco, Apollo, Ros, and Jasmine, were carefully handled by a team of experienced professionals to minimize stress and ensure their health during the transition.
Bali Exotic Marine Park, established with a Conservation Institution (LK) permit in late 2019, is located near Benoa Harbor. Our facilities are designed to meet the highest standards of animal welfare, offering a safe and enriching environment for marine life. The relocation of these dolphins to BEMP is a testament to our ongoing efforts to collaborate with various conservation bodies, including the Turtle Conservation and Education Center (TCEC) in Serangan, to ensure that rescued and rehabilitated marine animals receive the care they need.
The Evacuation of 7 Animals by BEMP
“Dolphin Lodge was declared closed as of April 15, 2020, after its permit expired,” said Sumarsono, Head of Conservation Section 1 of BKSDA Bali, who was present during the evacuation. “Subsequently, there was an incident involving the spread of a viral video. The dolphins were ridden by Lucinta Luna, and we have repeatedly issued warnings,” Sumarsono added. “Moreover, this location no longer has a permit. If action isn’t taken, they’ll continue their shows clandestinely. We’re simply following the orders of the Directorate General of KSDAE,” Sumarsono continued.
BEMP remains committed to providing an environment that prioritizes the health and well-being of these dolphins. The dolphins will continue to receive expert care and regular health assessments at BEMP to ensure their physical and mental well-being. This relocation underscores the importance of adhering to regulatory standards for animal exhibitions and highlights BEMP’s dedication to responsible and ethical marine animal care and conservation.