According to Serian police chief DSP Mohd Jamali Umi, a report was lodged on June 9 on the loss of RM8,000 worth of ‘empurau’ and equipment at the station.
However, according to a source, the estimated loss was actually more than RM200,000 worth of the prized fish which could fetch as high as RM500 per kg.
The source added that each adult ‘empurau’ reared at the Tarat agriculture station could easily reach 2.5kg after reaching maturity age of three years.
“The ‘empuraus’ in Tarat are reared for their fry to be distributed to inland fishermen,” revealed the source.
Due to the frequency of ‘theft’ of the fish in the station, it has since engaged security personnel to guard the ponds which are located deep in the interior part of the station.
Tarat agriculture officers refused to comment on the issue as it was now under police investigation.
The empurau or Tor tambroides is the most exotic big indigenous fish, and often confused with the Semah from the same family.
Its population in the wild has greatly decreased over the years as their habitat has become polluted.
The fish are found in most of the major rivers in Kapit, Belaga, Limbang, Lawas and Ulu Baram.
The fish thrives in swift, clear streams with rocky bottoms.
Its breeding is seasonal, normally three times a year, particularly during the Landas when it will swim upriver in search of a place conducive to spawning.
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