SERANGAN, Bali — Twenty-two protected green turtles were found alive on an unmanned boat off Serangan in South Denpasar on Saturday, in what police suspect was an attempted wildlife smuggling operation.

The discovery followed reports from members of the public about suspected turtle smuggling activity in waters around Serangan.

A patrol team from the Bali Police Water and Air Police Directorate later spotted a blue boat near the shoreline that officers said was not the type normally used by local fishermen.

When officers approached and inspected the boat, they found 22 green turtles, or Chelonia mydas, on board.

No one was found with the vessel.

Bali Police spokesperson Kombes Pol Ariasandy said investigators suspect whoever was operating the boat may have fled after noticing officers approaching.

The boat and the turtles were taken into police custody as evidence while investigators work to identify and locate those involved.

Authorities are coordinating with the Bali Natural Resources Conservation Agency, or BKSDA Bali, over the handling of the animals.

The turtles were found alive and are now receiving care.

Police said they are expected to be released back into the wild after undergoing health checks.

Green turtles are a protected species in Indonesia.

Police said the suspected offenders could face charges under Indonesia’s conservation law, with penalties of up to five years in prison and a maximum fine of Rp100 million.

Investigators are continuing to pursue those believed to be connected to the boat and the suspected smuggling operation.

Police also urged coastal communities to report suspected illegal wildlife trading or transport activity to authorities.