Quang Ngai, April 10 -- A rare sea turtle trapped in an abandoned fishing net drifting offshore has been safely rescued and released back into the ocean off Ly Son island.

Director of the Ly Son Marine Protected Area Management Board Huynh Ngoc Dung said the release of the sea turtle took place on April 10 morning, drawing the attention of visitors exploring the island.

The turtle had been discovered at around 23:30 on April 9 by local fishermen while they were out at sea. Recognising it as a protected species, the fishermen promptly contacted the management board and brought the animal ashore for rescue.

Examination confirmed the turtle as a hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata), classified as a critically endangered species liste...