Overview
- Prosecutors are investigating two people on suspicion of violating Paragraph 17 of the German Animal Welfare Act tied to the deaths of grey seals off Rügen.
- Investigators say indicia could support an initial suspicion of intentional killing, and the suspects have not commented.
- Officials expect to decide by the end of the year whether the evidence justifies filing charges.
- More than 40 seals were found dead in October 2024 near southeast Rügen, with natural causes ruled out and experts citing signs consistent with drowning in nets or traps.
- The inquiry stems from extensive water police investigations; precautionary rules mandating seal-protection devices on larger fish traps remain in force, and a previously suspected trap showed no irregularities.