Crocodile carcass found at MoBay restaurant triggers investigation

WESTERN BUREAU:

The St James Health Department has discovered a crocodile carcass at a food establishment in Montego Bay, St James, sparking concerns about its intended use.

While the department has declined to disclose the name of the establishment, there are indications that the carcass was likely being prepared for human consumption.

Speaking at Thursday’s monthly meeting of the St James Municipal Corporation (StJMC), Sherika Lewis, the acting chief public health inspector for St James, revealed that the carcass was discovered during a November inspection of the establishment, which had previously been ordered closed due to sanitation violations.

“There was a finding recently of a crocodile carcass in a food establishment in the city,” Lewis stated. “It was actually during an inspection that this carcass was found. The National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) was contacted, and they are in the process of taking legal action against the offender.”

Lewis explained that the establishment had been shut down prior to the discovery and was undergoing a follow-up inspection when the carcass was found. “That food-handling establishment was closed by the Public Health Department prior to this, and they called us to say they were ready for reopening. During our second inspection, the carcass was found. The establishment was not operational at the time,” she added.

CALLS FOR TRANSPARENCY

Senator Charles Sinclair, councillor for the Montego Bay North East division, criticised the department’s decision to withhold the name of the establishment.

“If it were secretive, why mention it in a public forum?” Sinclair argued. “If the Public Health Department identifies a place operating below expected standards, the public should be informed. I would also expect investigations to trace the origin of the crocodile carcass.”

In defence, Lewis clarified that the announcement aimed to raise public awareness. “The matter with the crocodile was brought to public attention because we want people to understand which animals in Jamaica are legally designated as food. People had been coming to the health department with enquiries about this, so I felt it necessary to issue a public advisory,” she said.

CONTROVERSIAL, ILLEGAL PRACTICE

Crocodiles have been classified as an endangered and protected species in Jamaica since 1971 under the Wildlife Protection Act. Section 6 of the act prohibits the hunting, possession, or sale of crocodiles or their body parts, with violators facing fines of up to $100,000 or up to 12 months in prison.

Despite these regulations, the illegal trade in crocodile meat persists. In 2017, NEPA offered a $100,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of individuals involved in the capture, sale, or purchase of crocodiles. Reports suggest that crocodile meat has been sold for as much as $2,000 per pound in parishes like St Elizabeth, Clarendon, and St Thomas.

The practice is reportedly fuelled by claims that crocodile meat acts as an aphrodisiac and boosts waning sexual drive, particularly among men seeking a quick alternative to physical fitness.

NEPA and health authorities continue to appeal for an end to crocodile hunting, emphasising its environmental and legal ramifications.

christopher.thomas@gleanerjm.com