The National Environment and Planning Agency NEPA is calling on all Jamaicans to recognize the critical role crocodiles play in maintaining the balance of the island’s ecosystems.

This in the wake of the killing of a crocodile, in Hellshire, St. Catherine.

The animal was discovered on Wednesday, October 1, near the Hellshire Bridge, with its tail severed and a rope tied around its mouth. 

The crocodile, which had been spotted alive in the same area as recently as Saturday September 27, showed clear signs of illegal capture, before being killed.

This latest attack comes days after a similar incident was reported on Monday, September 29, in a community off Spanish Town Road, Kingston.

NEPA said the incidents underscore growing concerns about repeated acts of cruelty against the crocodile, which is a protected species.

In a statement, NEPA said the American crocodile  is protected under the Wild Life Protection Act, WLPA. 

The agency explained that it is an offence to kill, capture, or harm the animal, with violators facing penalties of up to three years’ imprisonment or fines of up to 3 million dollars.

Environmental Officer in NEPA’s Fauna Unit, Leighton Mamdeen, stressed the importance of protecting the species. 

He said the agency continues to receive troubling reports of people consuming crocodile meat for supposed health benefits, including claims that the tail acts as an aphrodisiac. 

He said there is no scientific evidence to support this.

Mr. Mamdeen explained that crocodiles are not food; but are vital to the ecosystem as they regulate populations of other species, and as scavengers, they help to keep waterways clean by removing dead animals that could otherwise spread disease.

NEPA said it has launched a comprehensive investigation into the Hellshire incident and will collaborate with the relevant authorities to ensure those responsible are held accountable under the law. 

As such, NEPA is urging anyone with information that can assist with its investigation to contact the agency.

Persons may also contact NEPA or call 119 or the nearest police station to report any instances of harassment, capture, or killing of a crocodile.