Eleven Pilot Whales Die After Becoming Trapped in Fishing Nets in East Nusa Tenggara

A total of 11 pilot whales (Globicephala macrorhynchus) have been reported dead after becoming trapped in fishing nets in the waters of Fuanfuni Village, Rote Barat Daya Subdistrict, Rote Ndao Regency, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). In addition to the 11 dead whales, several other whales are reported to be in critical condition.

“Based on identification from colleagues in the field, there are 11 whales that have already died,” said Imam Fauzi, Head of the Kupang National Marine Conservation Area Authority (BKKPN).

The appearance of the marine mammals occurred on Monday evening, 9 March 2026. Besides the 11 dead whales, there are several other whales whose condition is critical. However, he refrained from further speculation as his team is still conducting data collection and further identification in the field.

According to plan, the carcasses of the marine mammals will be buried involving the regional government, the public, and the Maritime and Naval Police of the NTT Police. A team of veterinarians will also be involved to conduct necropsies to identify the cause of death.

“The handling is not yet complete, so the report from the field has not yet arrived. Once the report arrives, I will send it,” clarified Imam.

A pod of pilot whales (Globicephala macrorhynchus) had been trapped in fishing nets in the waters of Fuanfuni Village, Rote Barat Daya Subdistrict, Rote Ndao Regency, East Nusa Tenggara on Monday, 9 March 2026 evening. The marine mammals were subsequently rescued by police.

“Yes, earlier there were pilot whales found trapped in fishing nets,” said Rote Barat Daya Police Chief Ipda Subur Gunawan.