In a recent development, Norwegian police have refuted claims made by animal rights groups that a beluga whale found dead off the coast of Norway was shot to death. The beluga, affectionately named 'Hvaldimir,' was first discovered in 2019 near Russian waters wearing a harness inscribed with 'Equipment St. Petersburg.'
After the beluga was found floating in Risavika Bay in southern Norway on August 31, experts conducted an examination of the carcass. Contrary to allegations of intentional killing, the preliminary autopsy revealed that the visible wounds on the animal were superficial, with no fatal injuries or signs of gunshot wounds.
While a stick was found lodged in the beluga's mouth, there was no evidence of projectiles or indications that the wounds were caused by gunshots. Additionally, the animal's stomach was empty, and its organs had started to decompose.
Authorities emphasized that there is no conclusive evidence linking human activity to Hvaldimir's death. The police have stated that they will not actively pursue further investigation into the case, with the final autopsy report expected to be released later this month.
Despite the preliminary findings, animal advocacy groups OneWhale and NOAH remain unsatisfied and are urging for the police investigation to continue. They have offered a reward for any information that could reopen the case.
The beluga whale, measuring 4.2 meters in length and weighing 1,225 kilograms, gained attention due to its harness and friendly interactions with humans. Speculation arose about the whale being a 'spy whale' or potentially trained for military purposes by the Russian navy.
While the circumstances surrounding Hvaldimir's death remain unclear, the investigation continues as authorities seek to determine the cause of the beluga's demise.
