After a video complaint that circulates on social networks about the mistreatment of a turtle, the regional director of the Ministry of the Environment ( MiAmbiente ) in Guna Yala, Gricelio Hayans, said that he will initiate an investigation into the fact.

He indicated "that the communities in Guna Yala are very clear about the concept of the conservation of these species, which are even part of their worldview when considering them as a family."

"Every year the communities of Armila and Cayos Holandeses celebrate turtle festivals and there are several Community Base organizations (CBO) that work on this issue, such as in Masargandup, where they have developed a turtle protection program, as well as the Narganá community, "Hayans explained.

According to the official, the Guna General Congress has issued a Decree that prohibits the capture of these chelonians, as a measure to ensure their survival.

Hayans argued that at first glance, "what is shown in the video can be ruled out as an isolated incident to Guna Yala and that it may correspond to another area."

"Only by seeing the type of sand we can realize that it does not correspond to our beaches. We must also consider our training and cultural education that respects and coexists with the fauna. However, we have initiated a series of consultations within our area of control," he said.