Witnessing neighboring fishers preparing to slaughter a dolphin caught in a net, a group of fishermen in Quang Binh Province, central Vietnam pooled their funds to purchase the fish and release it back into the sea.

On Friday, Dong Vinh Quang, chairman of the People’s Committee of Canh Duong Commune in Quang Trach District, Quang Binh, confirmed that the group of local fishermen had successfully released the dolphin back into the sea.

The dolphin, caught by fishermen in Quang Xuan Commune, adjacent to Canh Duong Commune, was intended for sale upon arrival at Canh Duong’s pier. 

Upon learning of the incident, Canh Duong fishermen pooled funds to buy the dolphin.

Afterwards, the dolphin was nursed to health, placed in a styrofoam box, and returned to the ocean. 

Measuring approximately two meters in length and weighing around 40kg, the dolphin appeared healthy upon release.

Canh Duong, a commune with a centuries-old tradition of offshore fishing, holds dolphins in high regard, believing their presence brings good fortune. 

Therefore, local fishermen refrain from harming or trading dolphins, and if one washes ashore deceased, it receives a burial ceremony.

“The local people here always consider dolphins as friends,” Quang stated.

Earlier, on March 16, fishermen in Cuong Gian Commune, Nghi Xuan District, Ha Tinh Province, north-central Vietnam caught 19 dolphins weighing between 40kg and 60kg each. 

Local authorities and community efforts raised VND32 million (US$715) to buy and release these dolphins into the sea.

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