KOTA KINABALU: A photo purportedly showing Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin at a dining table with what looks like turtle eggs is being circulated on social media.
However, a man who was seated at the same table with Bung, has taken to Facebook to explain the matter, saying the photos were edited.
In the Facebook account under the name of Rapidcdorezo, the man said the picture circulating online was his, but somehow edited by irresponsible parties.
He apologised to Bung for the trouble and misunderstanding caused.
The photo, which was also shared by Tanjung Aru assemblyman Datuk Junz Wong on his Facebook account, is causing concern among the public because it is illegal to possess or consume turtle eggs in Sabah. It is not known when the photo was taken.
When contacted, state Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin said the authorities will look into the matter.
In 2015, the then rural and regional development minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob came under fire when he was photographed sitting at a table where turtle eggs were served during an event in Sabah.
Beluran Umno chief Datuk James Ratib and other local leaders were also in that photograph.
Ismail Sabri, however, said he did not eat the eggs and did not know the caterers were serving them.
He subsequently filed a defamation lawsuit against a local publication and the matter was settled after a lengthy court hearing.
Turtles are protected under the Sabah Wildlife Enactment 1997 as their numbers are dwindling due to meat and egg poaching.
It is considered an offence to harvest, sell or consume turtle eggs in the state and those convicted are liable to a fine of RM50,000 or five years’ imprisonment or both.
by 
