ST CATHERINE, Jamaica – Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation, Matthew Samuda has commissioned an urgent multi-agency investigative tour of the Greater Portmore Sewage Ponds, following the discovery of 10 dead adult crocodiles at the facility this week.

Samuda, who holds responsibility for water, the environment, and climate change portfolios, described the incident as “heartbreaking”.

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“It is an absolutely heartbreaking situation. I have ordered an investigation, and when that investigation is conducted, all results will be made public. I do intend to tour the area over the next 36 hours to see what infrastructure is required to either keep wildlife out of the drain ponds or to ensure that they’re able, if they do get caught in there, to escape. So, I intend to carry the relevant experts from NEPA (National Environment and Planning Agency), Forestry, NWC (National Water Commission), and other animal experts [wildlife protection officers] to look at what needs to be done in that regard”, Samuda explained

He assured that “Any necessary infrastructure required to either protect wildlife in that space or to ensure that they’re able to exit will be procured on an emergency basis to prevent reoccurrence”.

Residents in the area had criticised the structure of the ponds, which are not structured to allow animals out if they venture in, as a reason behind the mass deaths. Photos of the dead crocs, some curled up together, were shared on social media by concerned residents.

Samuda maintained that the Government viewed the deaths, suspected to be of dehydration, with the utmost seriousness

“ As investigations progress, every effort will be made to implement sustainable solutions that protect the country’s wildlife and preserve the integrity of our natural ecosystems,” Samuda said, noting that the probe will be completed over the next 36 hours.