The “cruel” capture of a giant manta ray has caused outrage online after the act was caught on camera.
The footage was shot by Denis Richard, who runs dolphin tours and was out on an excursion at the time.
He claims to have spotted a large group of men with a big net attempting to reel in the giant fish.
The founder of Water Planet USA recorded the incident and shared it on Instagram, where the clip has over 641,000 views so far.
“I was running a tour with around five customers, one trainee captain and one photographer on board when we spotted the boat,” Denis told Need To Know.
“I first asked them if they were going to release the animal.
“They said no, that they had a permit.
“Then I told them to release it, that they should be ashamed of themselves for injuring this magnificent animal.
“I first thought they had caught the manta ray by accident because the hook was implanted under one of the fish’s wing.
“I was shocked and could not believe that such cruel act would be permitted by the government we have elected.”
Denis says the incident occurred less than half a mile off the beach of Panama City, Florida, US, on 12 July at around 11.20am.
Manta rays are protected under the Endangered Species Act.
However, it has been reported that the captors reportedly held a Marine Special Activity License, which according to the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conversation Commission allows for exemptions to marine fishers regulations.
This includes activities such as scientific research, education and exhibition, and more.
Denis claims to have “learned from official sources” that the group who captured the manta ray – alleged to be Dynasty Marine Associates – has contracts with companies such as SeaWorld Abu Dhabi.
In the clip shared to social media, the men can be seen stood on the end of a boat with a giant net.
They pull the ray in before lifting it into a bucket of water.
“You should be ashamed of yourselves,” people can be heard shouting in the background.
Denis’s dolphin tour company captioned the post: “Unfortunately, on today’s tour – we witnessed a heartbreaking scene,” followed by an explanation of what happened.
The video has gained 3,200 likes and 800 comments from users.
One person commented: “Seriously heartbreaking to see this! A protected manta ray, just taken like that… How is this allowed? These animals aren’t meant for tanks, they belong in the ocean. Absolutely unacceptable!”
Fernanda said: “Shame! Shame!”
Oce foundation said: “Absolutely heartbreaking. Manta rays are vital, intelligent creatures — not aquarium decor. It’s unacceptable that loopholes still allow them to be removed from their home waters under permits like this.”
Erica added: “Shame.”
Raphael said: “THAT IS SO SAD.”
Perla added: “This is terrible.”
Shannon said: “Heartbreaking!”
READ MORE: Teen boy hospitalised after nasty e-scooter accident
