Police: Russian “spy whale” was not shot dead, contrary to rumors

An investigation into the fate of a well-known beluga whale off the coast of Norway has left many questions unanswered. The whale, previously speculated to be a Russian spy due to its unusual harness, was found lifeless at Risavika Bay on August 31. This incident has sparked controversy, particularly from animal rights groups who claim the whale was intentionally killed.

Initially spotted in 2019 near Russian waters with a harness marked “Equipment St. Petersburg,” the beluga had affectionately been named “Hvaldimir,” combining the Norwegian word for whale, “hval,” with a reference to Vladimir Putin. Animal advocacy groups, including OneWhale and NOAH, recently filed a police report asserting that the whale had been shot. Regina Haug, the founder of OneWhale, stated that she was immediately convinced the whale had been killed by gunfire upon seeing its carcass.

Despite these claims, Norwegian police stated there is no evidence supporting the assertion that Hvaldimir was shot. A preliminary autopsy was performed by the Norwegian Veterinary Institute, and the police confirmed that the results did not indicate any gunshot wounds. Most of the visible injuries to Hvaldimir were defined as superficial, with only one slightly deeper wound that did not affect vital organs.

Police reports indicated that an x-ray examination revealed no projectiles or bullet fragments within the whale’s body. Yet, disturbing details emerged: a stick approximately 35 centimeters long was discovered lodged in the animal’s mouth, and its stomach was empty, signifying potential starvation. However, police noted they found no direct evidence linking the whale’s death to human actions.

Preede Revheim, who oversees the North Sea and environment section of the police, explained that, while investigations have been initiated, there is currently no active inquiry in light of the autopsy findings. They plan to release a final report later this month.

The response from the animal rights organizations has been one of disappointment. They have expressed dissatisfaction with the preliminary findings and are advocating for a thorough investigation to continue. To this end, they have offered a reward of 50,000 kroner (approximately $4,661) for any information that could lead to reopening the case.

In the wake of Hvaldimir’s death, OneWhale released a statement expressing their heartbreak and anger, revealing their relentless efforts to protect the whale and their hopes for a brighter future for him. Hvaldimir was a 4.2-meter (14-foot) long, 1,225-kilogram (2,700-pound) whale known for its friendly demeanor. Over the years, reports emerged of Hvaldimir’s encounters with various coastal towns in Norway, where it famously enjoyed interacting with people.

Hvaldimir’s backstory includes speculation about its origins and purpose. Following its first sighting, media outlets captivated audiences with theories about its potential links to Russian military operations. Reports have previously suggested that the Russian military has endeavored to weaponize marine mammals. Last year, British military intelligence hinted at evidence of Russia training combat dolphins amid heightened tensions stemming from the ongoing Ukraine conflict.

In 2019, footage emerged of Hvaldimir, where it was seen with fishing nets and a camera harness, raising eyebrows and intrigue. Over time, however, many began to see Hvaldimir not as a tool of espionage but as a gentle giant that formed connections within the community.

The story of Hvaldimir has struck a chord with wildlife advocates, prompting deeper conversations about human interactions with marine life and the responsibilities of societies to protect these vulnerable creatures. As the investigation unfolds, the world watches closely for answers in the troubling case of Norway’s beloved beluga.

Source: CBS News