Hours after the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) offered a $10,000 reward for any registered fisherman who could catch the shark that mauled a British tourist on Friday, the reward has now been retracted.
In a press conference last night, Chief Secretary Farley Augustine said that the decision came about due to the confusion attached to the move.
“I’ve asked for the ad to be retracted effective immediately and I’ve asked that the fishers work along with the Coast Guard work along with the divers and other stakeholders to expertly man the area,” he said.
Augustine promised that the retraction doesn’t mean they’re done ensuring the safety of beachgoers.
“While the department is recalling the advertisement, I’m letting you know that there are experts who will expertly treat with the matter dealing with the bull shark,” he added.
Augustine said it was reported that the shark in question was a bull shark. He said they are known as solitary hunters and only one was seen in the area.
The Division of Tourism, Culture, Antiquities and Transportation said the attack occurred at Turtle Beach shortly after 9am on Friday.
The victim, a 64-year-old British national, was 10 metres offshore when the attack occurred and received injuries to his left arm, left leg and stomach.
Augustine said that the tourist had emergency surgery and is in a stable condition. He said some reattachments were made.
He promised that the THA would stand by the family regarding continued care, accommodation and other amenities that would allow them a smooth experience despite the unfortunate circumstances.
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Meanwhile, the Tobago Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) has also advised that beaches along the westerly end of the island be closed until further notice. These include:
– Grafton Beach -Grange Bay
– Mt. Irvine – Store Bay
– Rocky Point – Swallows
– Buccoo Beach – No Man’s Land
– Pigeon Point