9 People Die After Eating Sea Turtle in Zanzibar

In a tragic incident on Tuesday, March 7, 2024, in the Zanzibar archipelago of Tanzania, 9 people died after eating sea turtle meat. 78 others were hospitalized with poisoning symptoms.

Details of the Incident:

A group of people on Pemba Island hunted a sea turtle, cooked its meat, and ate it. Shortly after eating the meal, 9 people began to show signs of poisoning, including vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. The 9 people were taken to the hospital but could not be saved. The 78 others are still undergoing treatment.

Why Can Sea Turtles Be Dangerous?

Sea turtles can contain a toxin called chelonitoxin in their meat. This toxin can affect the nervous system, leading to paralysis and death. The liver and meat of sea turtles are particularly poisonous.

Warning from Authorities:

Zanzibar authorities have announced that hunting and eating sea turtles is illegal and that measures will be taken to prevent such an incident from happening again. The authorities stressed that sea turtles are an endangered species and need to be protected.