KOTA KINABALU: The Wildlife Department is investigating the alleged claims a former assemblyman eating turtle eggs during Chinese New Year’s reunion dinner.

Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin said that there is no stop order nor fear or favour in conducting the probe.

“There is no order to stop the investigations as insinuated in the social media. I have had a long discussion with The Director of Sabah Wildlife Department .

“Though I do understand the challenges of investigating and to prosecute with just photos without actually having the turtle eggs itself , I have directed him to leave no stones unturned and put SWD’s full resources to investigate this case.”

This includes to put more boots on the ground to monitor illegal turtle egg being sold in some of the areas in Sandakan” added Datuk Jafry.

Last weekend, the photo of a family dinner held by a former state assemblyman’s family from the east coast in Beluran.

Yesterday, former state Tourism, Culture and Environment Datuk Christina Liew had said authorities have to follow through with their investigations into the case.

She had added that Sabah Wildlife Department (SWD) must trace the culprits responsible for the turtle eggs.

“To deter would-be perpetrators, the department’s investigation must lead to prosecution and conviction of the alleged offender. No one is above the law.

“I am utterly disappointed that some citizens have absolutely no respect for the law against the possession and consumption of turtle eggs in Sabah,” Liew was quoted in a news portal.